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Sources: Big update on Aston Villa bid to sign Smith-Rowe as new offer being submitted
Aston Villa are preparing to submit an improved bid of £30million for Arsenal playmaker Emile Smith-Rowe, Football Insider understands.
The London giants knocked back an opening offer of £25m from Villa for their academy product last week.
A club source has told Football Insider that Villa refuse to be put off in their pursuit and they are readying a second offer for Smith-Rowe, 20, worth £5m more in total.
It comes as Arsenal try to agree a new and improved contract with the young Englishman.
He is out of contract in 2023 and Villa are keen to exploit the uncertainty over this future.
Smith-Rowe made 37 appearances for Arsenal in all competitions last season.
He scored seven goals and picked up eight assists as he proved to be a bright spark in a disappointing season for Arsenal.
The midfielder has previously spent time on loan at RB Leipzig and Huddersfield Town.
However, due to a groin injury, Smith-Rowe only made three substitute appearances for the German side.
The midfielder’s performance in December’s 3-1 win over Chelsea earned him much praise as he replaced the under-performing Willian.
Smith-Rowe picked up one assist in the win over the eventual Champions League winners in what was his first league appearance of the season.
He is highly regarded at Arsenal and viewed as one of their own by the Gunners faithful.
Aston Villa have already made two signings this summer.
Last week, Ashley Young returned to the club after winning Serie A with Inter Milan last season.
Emi Buendia has also joined from Norwich in what is a club record deal.
In other news, Aston Villa chiefs fear they have made a big mistake over marquee signing.