Emile Smith Rowe wasn’t ever close to leaving Arsenal this summer, according to Fabrizio Romano, despite reports linking him to Chelsea. The English midfielder has had difficulty getting regular game-time under Mikel Arteta and is an isolated figure at the Emirates. According to recent rumours, the Blues intend to bring the player to Stamford Bridge. Romano rejected those assertions in his post for Caught Offside, pointing out that Smith Rowe continues to play a crucial role in Arteta’s plans.
Arsenal to retain Emile Smith Rowe this summer
Smith Rowe, a 23-year-old Emirates Stadium academy product who advanced through several development groups to join the first squad in 2020. However the youngster experienced a major drop in favour under Mikel Arteta last season. The England youth international had to come off the bench as substitute on 12 different occasions during the Premier League season, making zero starts. Smith Rowe has made 97 senior outings for Arsenal. In addition, he has also netted 18 goals and provided 11 assists.
Fabrizio Romano gives a good news for Arsenal fans with deadline day approaching. He says:
“There have been some other interesting Chelsea transfer rumours doing the rounds, but honestly I’m not aware of concrete negotiations for Emile Smith Rowe.”
“Chelsea have been linked with 20 players or more this summer, but behind the scenes they wanted Cole Palmer. Smith Rowe was never top target for Chelsea or close to joining even, because Arsenal trust him and he’s part of Mikel Arteta’s project.”
According to 90min, Newcastle and Aston Villa “both made contact” with Arsenal for Smith Rowe’s loan move. However the Gunners is “not entertaining” any form of departure at the moment. Mikel Arteta was full of admiration for Smith Rowe earlier this summer. Thus the midfielder must prove his worth having three years remaining on his contract.
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