Emile Smith Rowe to tell Arsenal he wants to quit after Aston Villa news – sources
Emile Smith Rowe is set to inform Arsenal he wants to leave the club amid interest from Aston Villa, Fulham and Crystal Palace, sources have told Football Insider.
It is understood Smith Rowe is keen to depart the Emirates as he looks for a starting XI role elsewhere, having failed to break into Mikel Arteta’s first-choice line-up.
Football Insider revealed on 4 June that Arsenal are willing to accept big-money offers for the 23-year-old, who has two years remaining on his current contract and at present appears very unlikely to sign fresh terms.
Following a lengthy injury lay-off in 2022, Smith Rowe has struggled since to gain regular playing time for the Gunners, and has made just three Premier League starts in the last two seasons.
Aston Villa – who previously made an approach to Arsenal for the three-cap England man but were rebuffed – remain interested and possess the lure of Champions League football, while Fulham and Crystal Palace have make enquiries about a potential deal.
Aston Villa, Fulham and Crystal Palace set sights on Emile Smith Rowe
With Smith Rowe’s career progressing, it looks increasingly unlikely the Hale End graduate will remain at Arsenal for the longer term.
The attacking midfielder has never been short of suitors and whilst it remains Arteta’s preference to continue with Smith Rowe in the squad, another year of keeping him around will see his market value significantly fall with his contract expiring in 2026.
Arsenal are holding out for their price, which is understood to be bids in excess of £30m citing the player’s age profile, homegrown premium and previously demonstrated talent.
Football Insider reported [14 June] that a £30m-plus offer would force Arsenal’s hand as the club look to offload several fringe players to raise funds.
Smith Rowe himself – whose only other career experience has been short stints on loan with RB Leipzig and Huddersfield Town – will be confident he can revive his career at a new club and force himself back into England reckoning.
In other news, an update has emerged on Arsenal target Alexander Isak.
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