Arsenal supporters have been hit with a whirlwind of news, as Kai Havertz’s injury scare, the imminent arrival of Eberechi Eze, and fresh speculation over Gabriel Martinelli dominate headlines, while attention also turns to a potential move for Lyon winger before the close of the transfer window.
Havertz is believed to have sustained a knee injury during Arsenal’s 1-0 victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford on Sunday, where he came on as a second-half substitute for Viktor Gyokeres. The 26-year-old German was absent from Wednesday’s open training session, sparking fears of a lengthy absence.
Early indications suggest Havertz has avoided serious anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) damage, but Arsenal are still awaiting full medical assessments before establishing a recovery timeline.
In response, the Gunners accelerated their pursuit of Crystal Palace playmaker Eberechi Eze. Transfer insider David Ornstein revealed that the England international had made clear his desire to join Mikel Arteta’s side, and Fabrizio Romano later confirmed a verbal agreement with his trademark “Here We Go!” update.
Arsenal are expected to pay a package worth over £60 million, beating off competition from Tottenham Hotspur.
Meanwhile, Saudi Pro League clubs are reportedly preparing a blockbuster bid for Martinelli. According to Indykaila News, at least one side is ready to table an offer in excess of £80 million for the Brazilian winger, more than double Arsenal’s record outgoing fee.
With Martinelli under contract until 2027 and central to Arteta’s plans, Arsenal are not actively looking to sell, but such a figure could test the club’s resolve before the September 1 deadline.
On top of this, French journalist Hugo Guillemet reports that Arsenal and Bayern Munich have joined the race for Lyon’s rising star Malick Fofana. The 20-year-old Belgian winger, who only joined Lyon from KAA Gent in January 2024 for €17 million plus add-ons, enjoyed a breakout season with 11 goals and five assists across all competitions.
Lyon, facing financial pressure, value Fofana at around €60 million (£51.5m) but could be tempted by offers in the €45–50m range. Arsenal have reportedly held talks in France over a possible deal, with Arteta keen to bolster his wide options amid Havertz’s injury and continued uncertainty over Martinelli’s future.
Bayern Munich also view Fofana as a long-term solution on the flanks under Vincent Kompany, though the Bundesliga giants are thought to value him closer to €30–35m. Liverpool, Chelsea, Fulham, Nottingham Forest, and Napoli are also monitoring the situation, raising the prospect of a late-window bidding war.
