Kai Havertz became Mikel Arteta’s first signing of the summer after sealing a 75 million euros move from cross-city rivals Chelsea and while at Stamford Bridge the German was considered a floating striker or a false nine as many would call it – at the Emirates he is targeting a starting role in midfield.That being said, the welcoming Arsenal midfielders are getting some heavy competition. Gunners young talent Emile Smith Rowe sees it more as ‘healthy’ competition and as one of many pieces of the puzzle that will get Arsenal to the next level.The Arsenal academy graduate was forced to spend most of last season on the treatment table, and while Havertz could oust him from Arteta’s plans, he is excited by the arrival of his new team-mate.’I see what happens and obviously it’s good for the club to add strength to the team,’ he told the Sun.’I feel like the additions we’re making are going to really help the team progress again.’It’s really exciting so hopefully we can go one step further next season,’ he added.’Of course (it is extra competition with Havertz arrival), but this is football.’You’ve just got to get on with it. I’ve got to keep working hard and it’s healthy competition. I’ve got to keep fighting,’ he said.##NAJAVA_MECA_7350574##Smith Rowe will be hoping that he can rediscover the form that led to him becoming one of Arsenal’s brightest talents alongside Bukayo Saka.A groin injury significantly hampered his game-time last season and Arteta then decided to opt for other forwards over the 22-year-old during the end-of-season run-in.However, his future for the meantime appears safe with the club reportedly keen to continue Smith Rowe’s development, even as they prepare for more incomings.Alongside Havertz’s arrival, Declan Rice is edging closer to officially joining Arsenal after a 122 million euros fee was agreed, provides more competition in the Gunners’ ranks and Smith Rowe is up for the challenge.Emile Smith Rowe on if Havertz’s arrival is extra competition for him: “Of course, but this is football. You’ve just got to get on with it. I’ve got to keep working hard & it’s healthy competition. I’ve got to keep fighting.” [SunSport] #afc pic.twitter.com/hUHkMmdub7— afcstuff (@afcstuff) July 1, 2023 Arsenal want to bolster their ranks after enduring another trophyless year that saw them agonisingly slip up in the Premier League title race against Manchester City. They were also knocked out of the Europa League, FA Cup and Carabao Cup as all hopes were pinned on a first league crown in almost 20 years.Havertz was the club’s first marquee signing of the summer transfer window and more are expected with Rice soon to follow and final discussions are also ongoing about Ajax defender Jurrien Timber.
