Emile Smith Rowe
Arsenal and Fulham are close to reaching an agreement for the transfer of Emile Smith Rowe. The deal, which has been in the works for several weeks, is expected to be finalized soon, with both clubs ironing out the final details. Smith Rowe’s potential move to Fulham indicates the club’s ambition to strengthen their squad with a young and talented midfielder
Arsenal and Fulham are closing in on a deal for Emile Smith Rowe that could match the Gunners’ record for their highest sale.
Arsenal previously turned down a £30 million bid for the Hale End Academy product, but Fulham has come back with an improved offer worth up to £35 million. If the deal goes through, it would match Arsenal’s record for their highest sale, which was previously set when they sold Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain to Liverpool. This transfer would also mark Fulham’s record acquisition.
Ornstein reported earlier this week that Mikel Arteta and the club preferred to sell other players rather than Smith Rowe. However, they wouldn’t hinder his departure if he desired a move and an appropriate bid was made. Smith Rowe has yet to undergo a medical and finalize personal terms, but he would likely receive more first-team minutes at Craven Cottage than at the Emirates Stadium.
Smith Rowe’s sale would represent pure profit for Arsenal, considering he came through the club’s academy
Arsenal and Fulham are close to reaching an agreement on the Emile Smith Rowe transfer deal.
Smith Rowe was an important member of Arsenal’s 2020/21 and 2021/22 sides as the team underwent a transitional phase.
During the team’s two subsequent title challenges, Smith Rowe was plagued by injuries and saw his first-team minutes dwindle due to the rise in Granit Xhaka’s form and the arrivals of Declan Rice and Kai Havertz.
Despite his early contributions, the increased competition and his fitness issues have limited his impact on the squad in recent seasons.
If the deal is completed, Arsenal will still need midfield depth and a left-sided playmaker. Fans have often complained that the team was too static at points last year compared to the previous season when Xhaka was in the role.