Arsenal eye Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers amid Havertz injury blow

Arsenal are reportedly considering a late move for Aston Villa forward Morgan Rogers after Kai Havertz suffered a fresh injury setback. The Germany international was absent from the Gunners’ open training session at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday and now faces an uncertain spell on the sidelines, prompting Mikel Arteta’s side to re-enter the transfer market.

🚨⚠️ Kai Havertz has suffered knee injury and it will be assessed by Arsenal staff in the next hours.

Arsenal consider new signing following Havertz’s new injury, as @David_Ornstein reports. pic.twitter.com/KrxHcGiJgH
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 20, 2025

Rogers emerges as key target

Rogers, who enjoyed a breakout campaign with Villa last season, has been on Arsenal’s radar for some time. The 23-year-old scored 14 goals and provided 16 assists across 54 appearances in all competitions, form which earned him the PFA Young Player of the Year award. Arteta was quick to congratulate the versatile forward during the ceremony in Manchester earlier this week, further fuelling speculation of a possible move.

With his ability to operate across the frontline or in the No.10 role, Rogers represents the type of adaptable attacker that Arteta values highly. His potential arrival would not only provide cover for Havertz but also bolster Arsenal’s options in a season where they will be juggling Premier League, Champions League and domestic cup commitments.

The Gunners’ current concern stems from the lack of depth up front. Last season, injuries to Gabriel Jesus and Havertz forced Arteta to experiment, with midfielder Mikel Merino even filling in at times. Despite the big-money signing of Viktor Gyökeres this summer, the uncertainty surrounding Havertz’s availability has raised fears of a repeat scenario.

For Havertz, another injury would mark a continuation of a difficult run. A hamstring issue earlier this year sidelined him for most of the second half of the season, limiting him to just 33 minutes of action after February. His cameo against Manchester United last weekend had hinted at a possible return to rhythm, but Wednesday’s setback suggests his struggles are far from over.

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Whether Arsenal move decisively for Rogers may depend on the medical updates regarding Havertz, but the Villa man is firmly on their shortlist as the clock ticks down towards the transfer deadline.