The German forward spent almost the entire second half of last season sidelined with a severe hamstring problem. Mikel Arteta was forced to convert central midfielder Mikel Merino into a striker, prompting a considerable dip in attacking threat which led to another failed Arsenal title challenge.

Havertz is understood to be struggling with a knee issue that Arsenal are currently assessing to learn the extent of it. If the German is out for an extended period of time then it could force the Gunners to enter the transfer market before it closes on September 1.