Arsenal are reportedly close to finalizing a £35 million deal with Fulham for the transfer of Emile Smith Rowe. The Gunners had previously rejected offers from both Fulham and Crystal Palace, but it seems that Fulham has now positioned themselves to secure the young midfielder’s signature.
Smith Rowe’s potential departure from Arsenal comes after a season in which he struggled to secure regular playing time under manager Mikel Arteta. Despite Arteta’s desire to keep the talented midfielder at the club, Smith Rowe’s lack of minutes on the pitch last season has made his future uncertain.
In the 2022/23 campaign, Smith Rowe was limited to just 14 appearances due to a groin injury. The previous season, he started only three games in the Premier League, accumulating a total of just 508 minutes of playing time over the last two seasons. This lack of consistent game time has hindered his development and raised questions about his role within the Arsenal squad.
The potential £35 million move to Fulham would not only provide Smith Rowe with a fresh start but also offer Arsenal a significant financial boost. The sale of academy players is considered pure profit for the club, making this transfer an attractive proposition for the Gunners’ Profit and Sustainability margins.
While the deal is said to be close, Smith Rowe still needs to finalize personal terms with Fulham and undergo a medical examination. The midfielder is currently with Arsenal’s squad in Los Angeles for their pre-season tour, adding an element of uncertainty to the situation.
In the meantime, Fulham has been active on the field, securing a convincing 4-0 victory over QPR in a behind-closed-doors friendly. This positive result may further bolster their confidence in securing Smith Rowe’s services.
Overall, the potential transfer of Emile Smith Rowe from Arsenal to Fulham represents a significant move for both clubs. For Arsenal, it offers a financial boost and the opportunity to clear space in the squad for new signings. For Smith Rowe, it presents a chance to reignite his career and secure regular playing time at a new club. Only time will tell if this deal comes to fruition, but it certainly has the potential to shape the future of all parties involved.