“Working on this surprise deal,” Fabrizio Romano said of the week’s big Chelsea story.

“Working on this surprise deal,” Fabrizio Romano said of the week’s big Chelsea story.

The transfer season officially opened Monday, sparking a flurry of transfer rumours surrounding Chelsea, as well as other clubs.

Chelsea are likely to be one of the busier teams this summer, owing to their willingness to sell so many of their present players.

The greatest story of the week so far broke yesterday, when it was revealed that Arsenal is interested in signing Chelsea attacker Kai Havertz. This rumor had been around for some time, but it has now been confirmed that contact has begun and Arsenal is attempting to sign the German international.

Real Madrid was pushing last week, but it appears that they have been priced out of a move. Arsenal, on the other hand, is still involved and is attempting to reduce the amount.

According to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, Bayern Munich is another team to keep an eye on in this race.

“Talks have started, and an opening bid has come in from Arsenal for Chelsea forward Kai Havertz. Arsenal are working on this surprise deal, which comes following quick developments in the last few days also with Real Madrid, who were interested but who are no longer in the race,” Romano wrote in his exclusive CaughtOffside Substack.

“Real have cooled down their interest because he’s considered too expensive – they won’t spend even £60m. Now, Arsenal have approached Chelsea, who have said their asking price is £70-75m.

“To be clear: Arsenal will never pay that money. But from what I understand, sources close to the negotiation believe it will be possible to sign Havertz from Chelsea for less than that. Chelsea could be flexible in terms of their value in order to make this deal happen, because they know the Germany international won’t extend his contract.

“Conversations are ongoing, and the player is keen on a move to Arsenal. Mikel Arteta really appreciates him, he’s a big fan of his qualities and feels this is a player with the space to grow and improve, despite his struggles at Stamford Bridge.

“But also keep an eye on Bayern – they have a good relationship with Havertz’s agents, who are the same as Konrad Laimer’s representatives. For the moment, there is no official bid, but Arsenal know that Bayern could also be in the race in the next few days.”

“Working on this surprise deal,” Fabrizio Romano said of the week’s big Chelsea story.