Fresh reports over the weekend claimed Saka is due back at the start of March. The Gunners are said to be targeting their Champions League last 16 first leg on either March 4 or 5, or their trip to Manchester United on March 9. But Arteta is unlikely to take any risks by rushing Saka back too soon.

Havertz is one of the Gunners' last remaining attacking players, let alone a capable center forward. Losing Havertz is a massive blow for Arteta and Co., regardless of the timing, as his 15 goals in all competitions (9 in the Premier League) lead Arsenal by a comfortable margin this season.