Emile Smith Rowe does NOT fear £65m Kai Havertz’s arrival at Arsenal amid midfield competition

While a new star signing rejoices supporters, it can occasionally raise questions in the dressing room over who’s place is in threat as is the case with Kai Havertz joining Arsenal.

The German became Mikel Arteta’s first signing of the summer after sealing a £65million move from cross-city rivals Chelsea and is targeting a starting role in midfield.

However, while his arrival, alongside Declan Rice who is edging closer to joining Arsenal, provides more competition in the Gunners’ ranks, Emile Smith Rowe is up for the challenge.

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, the Englishman 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.

Smith Rowe (left) believes that Havertz (right) is an ‘exciting’ addition for Arsenal

‘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.

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.

Smith Rowe (right) is currently starting on international duty with England at the Under 21 European Championship

Arsenal’s Smith Rowe is hoping that he can force his way back into Mikel Arteta’s plans next season

Havertz was the club’s first marquee signing of the summer transfer window and more are expected with Rice expected to soon follow for £105m and discussions are also ongoing about Ajax defender Jurrien Timber.

Smith Rowe meanwhile 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, while Arteta then decided to opt for other forwards over the 22-year-old during the end-of-season run-in.

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.