Manchester United was my dream club. I never liked Arsenal but I had no choice. I wish to play for my dream club one day”- Arsenal star reveals Man United scouted him first but couldn’t pay his transfer fee

Arsenal forward Kai Havertz has revealed that Manchester United scouted him during his Bayer Leverkusen days but were deterred by the transfer fee and did not enter negotiations. A report from The Athletic, cited by Express, reveals that the Red Devils scouted the versatile playmaker extensively before he joined Chelsea from Leverkusen.

According to the report, United made contact with Havertz in January 2020 but were quoted £90.8 million by Leverkusen when they registered interest in the German. United opted not to renegotiate in the summer and watched as Chelsea reached an agreement in the region of £72 million to acquire his services.

Instead, United signed Facundo Pellistri, Amad Diallo, and Edinson Cavani to bolster their attack in lieu of Havertz. Although Havertz did not fully realize the potential he showed at Leverkusen while at Chelsea, he has been finding his footing in Arteta’s table-topping Gunners.

His performances this season, especially over the past couple of months, have shown glimpses of the promising 19-year-old who captained Leverkusen and posted impressive numbers. This will likely leave United’s hierarchy wondering, “what if?”

If his upward trajectory continues, he will be well on his way to justifying the £65 million Arsenal paid to Chelsea for his signature two summers ago, particularly if he goes on to win the league. His willingness to drop deep to connect play, as well as his overall hold-up play, is admirable.

The Germany international has scored 12 goals and assisted six in 35 league appearances so far this season, leading the line impressively at the Emirates. A goal or assist every other game is a very impressive return, and one can’t help but wonder how he would have fared at United if the club’s hierarchy had negotiated for him.Kai Havertz’s revelation about Manchester United scouting him during his time at Bayer Leverkusen, as reported by The Athletic and cited by Express, adds an intriguing layer to his career trajectory. Despite United’s extensive scouting and initial contact in January 2020, Leverkusen’s £90.8 million valuation deterred them from entering negotiations. Subsequently, Chelsea capitalized on the opportunity, securing Havertz for around £72 million.

Instead of pursuing Havertz further, United opted to sign Facundo Pellistri, Amad Diallo, and Edinson Cavani. While Havertz’s stint at Chelsea did not fully meet expectations, his current form at Arsenal under Mikel Arteta has started to showcase his potential. His ability to drop deep, connect play, and provide hold-up play has been crucial for Arsenal, evidenced by his 12 goals and six assists in 35 league appearances this season.

As Havertz continues to find his footing at Arsenal, leading them to the top of the table, Manchester United’s hierarchy might indeed ponder the “what if” scenario, considering how his skill set could have fit into their squad dynamics. His performances are beginning to justify the £65 million Arsenal invested, especially if his contributions help secure a league title. This situation highlights the complex nature of transfer decisions and how timing, negotiation, and player development can significantly impact a club’s fortunes.