Arsenal have emerged as the frontrunners in the pursuit of Hertha Berlin's highly-rated teenage midfielder, Kennet Eichhorn, as the January transfer window approaches. The Gunners are set for a potential tussle with rivals Manchester United for the signature of the 16-year-old German youth international.
Gunners Target Promising Berlin Talent
According to reports from The Sun, Mikel Arteta's side are currently 'leading' the chase for the promising talent this winter. Eichhorn, who only signed his first professional contract with Hertha Berlin in July 2025, has already made his senior debut and appears to be attracting significant attention from Europe's elite clubs.
The young midfielder made his professional bow in a Bundesliga clash against Karlsruher in August and has since accumulated nine appearances across all competitions this campaign, with eight of those coming in Germany's top flight. Having been with Hertha Berlin since 2017, the club now faces a considerable challenge in retaining their academy product amid growing interest.
European Heavyweights Circle
While Arsenal and Manchester United appear to be the primary contenders for Eichhorn's signature, the report indicates that Liverpool, Barcelona, and Paris Saint-Germain have also dispatched scouts to monitor the teenager's progress. This widespread interest underscores the potential that scouts have identified in the young German.
For Arsenal, Eichhorn represents a potential long-term solution to bolster their midfield department. His acquisition would provide additional competition and depth in the middle of the park for seasons to come, aligning with Arteta's strategy of building a squad capable of sustained success.
Title Charge Continues Amid Transfer Plans
The transfer developments come as Arsenal continue their Premier League title challenge, currently sitting top of the table despite a recent 2-2 draw with Sunderland at the Stadium of Light. The Gunners saw Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard find the net against the Black Cats, though a stoppage-time equaliser denied them all three points.
Speaking after the match, Arteta expressed his frustration: "The last feeling is disappointment and frustration because we wanted the three points. We had to navigate through a really tough game, we knew that. It was very disruptive; we have to deal with situations that are difficult to deal with."
He added: "They did really well and we conceded a goal that is not in our standards, but after that I think the team reacted really well, showed a lot of personality and courage."
As the Gunners prepare for their next challenge against rivals Tottenham Hotspur after the international break, the club's recruitment team appears to be laying the groundwork for future success with their pursuit of one of Germany's most promising young talents.
