Bayern Munich are monitoring Arsenal forward Kai Havertz (26) as a potential summer acquisition following the club’s decision to abandon a permanent move for Chelsea loanee Nicolas Jackson. Bayern sporting director Max Eberl confirmed to ZDF that the Bundesliga giants will not trigger the €65 million buy option for Jackson, who is set to return to Stamford Bridge in June. While James Benge reported on the Inside Arsenal Podcast that Bayern’s interest in Havertz is currently for a depth role, the German international’s future at the Emirates is increasingly tied to Arsenal’s pursuit of Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez.
Bayern pivot after Jackson departure
The collapse of the Nicolas Jackson deal has left Bayern searching for a versatile forward to support Harry Kane. Speaking to ZDF, Max Eberl and Fabrizio Romano corroborated that the decision not to sign Jackson permanently was made as early as January, with the club unwilling to commit €65 million to a player who failed to secure a regular starting berth. Havertz, who has two years remaining on his Arsenal contract, offers the Bundesliga side a familiar profile with experience in Germany’s top flight. Despite his tactical flexibility, Havertz has struggled for consistency this term, recording five goals and four assists in 20 appearances during a season hampered by injury. His potential arrival in Munich would mirror the "depth piece" role James Benge suggests is currently vacant following Jackson's imminent exit.
Arsenal's attacking reshuffle
Arsenal’s willingness to entertain interest in Havertz stems from a desire to fund a move for Julian Alvarez, who is valued by Atletico Madrid at approximately €120 million (£104 million). According to reports from Goal, the North London club may be prepared to sacrifice both Havertz and Gabriel Jesus to finance the Alvarez transfer. This represents a significant shift in strategy for Mikel Arteta, who has frequently preferred Havertz in high-profile fixtures, notably starting him ahead of 2024 signing Viktor Gyokeres against Manchester City. With Havertz under contract until 2028, Arsenal remain in a strong negotiating position; however, the need to satisfy Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) while pursuing elite targets like Alvarez may necessitate high-profile departures this summer.
Bayern are expected to continue their internal assessment of Havertz's suitability as Arsenal's pursuit of Alvarez develops in the coming months.