Mikel Arteta urged to find a replacement for an Arsenal regular deemed “far from world-class.”

Mikel Arteta has been encouraged to replace Kai Havertz, with concerns raised about Arsenal’s title hopes.

Havertz joined Arsenal in the summer of 2023 for £65 million from Chelsea and has been deployed as the team’s primary striker this season. However, he has managed just four Premier League goals, contributing to Arsenal being the joint-lowest scorers among the top six teams, currently nine points behind league leaders Liverpool. The January transfer window could offer an opportunity to address their attacking struggles, with the pursuit of a new striker reportedly a priority.

Former Arsenal captain William Gallas believes Havertz is not the right fit and has called for the club to sign Victor Osimhen, criticizing Havertz’s role in the squad. “Kai Havertz has never been the right player to lead Arsenal to the Premier League title,” Gallas told Genting Casino. “He’s a good player but not world-class. Arsenal need a top striker to replace him.

“I don’t understand why Victor Osimhen is at Galatasaray. Arsenal should sign him—he’s exactly the kind of striker they need. To compete at the top, you need a strong squad with depth, like Manchester City and Liverpool. Arsenal must reach that level.”

Despite Gallas’s criticism, Arteta remains supportive of Havertz. The German’s last goal came in early October against Southampton, but Arteta has praised his professionalism and impact on the squad.

“I think he’s an incredible role model,” Arteta said. “His behavior, commitment, and love for the game are admirable. He’s handled difficult situations well and has qualities we needed. Although his form was questioned previously, we believed a change in environment would benefit him. He’s working hard to achieve our goals, and we’re in a good place with him now.”