Newcastle striker Nick Woltemade has revealed his admiration for one Arsenal star, following his move to the Premier League.
The forward becomes the latest in a long list of expensive forward shuffling around the division during the summer transfer window, of which the Gunners were involved.
While there were plenty of names linked with a move, Arsenal signed Viktor Gyokeres as their new centre-forward, adding a different profile to their frontline.
Alexander Isak was linked with the Gunners, but his expected switch to Liverpool seemingly ruled out a deal from Newcastle.
The Magpies needed a replacement and won the race to sign Woltemade, who is another tall striker added to an increasingly physical Premier Leaguesetup, where he will now face one Arsenal star he is a fan of.
Nick Woltemade names Kai Havertz as his favourite German player of all time
Arsenal have had plenty of global stars through the years, many of whom have had quite the influence on others.
Thierry Henry, for example, is still referenced as a driving force behind many players making the move to the Emirates Stadium.
While those icons have had their day, there are plenty of current aces who are forging their own path to stardom.
That includes Kai Havertz, who Woltemade referenced as someone he looks up to.
When asked about his favourite German player of all time, the new Newcastle centre-forward simply said: “I like Kai Havertz.”
Given the wealth of talent that Germany have had over the years, it’s a suggestion that may come as something of a surprise.
However, it shows perhaps just how underrated the Arsenal star really is, during a summer when many wanted a new centre-forward to replace him.
Kai Havertz and Nick Woltemade set to battle it out for World Cup place
While Woltemade has plenty of respect for Havertz, the pair will have to battle it out on more than one occasion.
The Newcastle and Arsenal duo may well meet on the club stage twice through the season, but their performances each week will also dictate their place in the Germany squad.
With the 2026 World Cup around the corner, each player will be focused on forcing their way into their national team squads.
Havertz’s injury concerns will play a part, though there is some hope that his recent surgery can push any of those problems back while gaining some momentum with his performances.
Woltemade’s displays for the under-21s at the recent European Championships highlighted his quality, while a good season in the Premier League could push him into contention.
It remains to be seen whether both could get into the squad, with a big season ahead for the pair.
