Real Madrid 'tried to hijack Arsenal's deal' for Kai Havertz as 'last-minute' phone call revealed

Real Madrid tried to sign Kai Havertz before he completed his transfer from Arsenal to Chelsea, it has been reported.

The German was officially announced as an Arsenal player on Wednesday, agreeing to a long-term contract at the Emirates Stadium.

The initial fee has been reported as £65 million, and the 24-year-old becomes Arsenal's first summer signing.

He is listed as a midfielder on Arsenal's official website, despite regularly playing as a centre forward for Chelsea last season - appearing to indicate that the new move may well bring about a role change.

Havertz leaves Chelsea after three seasons at Stamford Bridge, where he achieved relatively mixed success. By far his greatest moment, however, was scoring the winning goal in the 2021 Champions League final against Manchester City.

But while he now moves across London to join the Blues' rivals, there was reportedly a time at which it looked as if he could join Real instead.

Real Madrid 'tried to sign Havertz'

According to Spanish outlet Relevo, Los Blancos had explored the possibility of signing Havertz for several months before his move to Arsenal was confirmed, but were initially put off by Chelsea's asking price and were hopeful that they could reduce it.

It is claimed that the club held talks with the Germany international over the language and his relationship with existing players in the squad.

Furthermore, the report adds that Real chief scout Juni Calafat was keen to bring him to the Bernabeu. Calafat is credited with playing a key role in the signing of Jude Bellingham from Borussia Dortmund.

It is said that Havertz had a move to Real as his priority, but was 'excited' about Arsenal's interest and gave the move the 'green light'.

Significantly, however, Real allegedly called Chelsea 'at the last minute' to enquire about the price that the Gunners were going to pay the sign the 24-year-old.

But Havertz is now an Arsenal player, with the Spanish giants now needing to place their focus on other targets to join Bellingham and new loan signing Joselu at the Bernabeu from next season.