Chelsea have knocked back an offer from Arsenal for Kai Havertz, talkSPORT understands.
It was revealed last week how the Gunners had the versatile 24-year-old on their radar – along with Real Madrid.
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But Los Blancos are no longer in the running to sign the Germany international, giving the north Londoners a clear run at the player.
And talkSPORT understands that Arsenal have now failed with their first official bid.
Mikel Arteta’s side have no intention in matching the Blues’ £75million asking price, which led to Real Madrid ending their interest.
Arsenal remain hopeful at managing to agree a lower price with talks between the two clubs to continue.
The Gunners hope Havertz’s refusal to extend his stay at Chelsea beyond 2025 will bring the fee down.
It is believed that personal terms will not be an issue, with the former Bayer Leverkusen man open to an Emirates Stadium switch.
Havertz’s versatility is appealing to Arsenal boss Arteta, who can choose to play him up top, behind the striker or as a roaming box-to-box midfielder.
The 2021 Champions League winner joined Chelsea as an attacking midfielder, but has often been tasked with leading the line at Stamford Bridge.
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But it is thought that Arteta is confident he can successfully integrate the player into his team in his preferred position.
Meanwhile, Mason Mount could follow Havertz out the Chelsea door with Manchester United to return with a £50m bid after having a first offer rejected.
The England international is up for sale with the midfielder having just a year left on his contract.
Though with Chelsea valuing Mount at around £70m, it remains to be seen whether they will accept United’s imminent new bid.
talkSPORT revealed earlier this month that Mount had agreed personal terms with the Red Devils.
