Arsenal prefer to keep Emile Smith Rowe, but won’t go against player’s wishes

Arsenal prefer to keep Emile Smith Rowe this summer after turning down a bid from Fulham, but reportedly won’t stand in the player’s way if he expresses a desire to leave and a suitable offer comes in.

David Ornstein reported the North London club have players they would prefer to sell ahead of the midfielder, though didn’t go as far as naming anyone. According to Ornstein, “Arteta remains a huge fan of the player, and the club have not been particularly enamoured with the midfielders available on the market this summer.”

“The wishes of the player may be the determining factor. If Smith Rowe expresses a firm desire to leave, and Arsenal receive a suitable offer, the club are unlikely to stand in his way.”

Arsenal rejected a bid from Fulham for Smith Rowe this week with the 23-year-old reportedly considering his future. The midfielder’s injury woes have seen him struggle to get consistent minutes, and The Athletic reported a move would lie in the player’s desire for first-team football.

Fans are endeared toward Smith Rowe not only as a Hale End Academy product, but also for his play in the 2020/21 Premier League season. Arteta notably brought the player into the side at home against Chelsea when the team went through a horrible Christmas period. Smith Rowe was an integral part of that Arsenal team the following season before injury woes, new signings and a realized style of play saw him fall down the pecking order.

Smith Rowe has made just 25 league appearances combined the past two seasons. A stark contrast from the two prior where he appeared in 53 games.

Smith Rowe was named to Arsenal’s 26-man squad for their United States pre-season tour alongside Reiss Nelson and Eddie Nketiah who have also been linked with moves away from Arsenal.

While Arsenal have holes to fill in the attack, a healthy and committed Smith Rowe helps ease worries about the left-sided 8 role. A strong pre-season will play a big part in the player getting consistent minutes come next season.

READ THE LATEST ARSENAL NEWS, TRANSFER RUMOURS & GOSSIP