Fulham has secured the signing of Emile Smith Rowe from Arsenal on a five-year deal, with the option of extending for another 12 months, for a fee of up to £34 million ($43.7 million). In order to assess the quality of this transfer, The Athletic’s team of experts in transfers, tactics, data, and football finance have come together to rate this and other senior Premier League transfers using a comprehensive scoring system called The Athletic 500.
Under the category of tactical fit, Smith Rowe receives a score of 54/100. As an attacking midfielder, he has the potential to become Fulham’s creative hub. He is most comfortable in the left central midfielder position and has a knack for advancing play and finding teammates in forward positions. His ability to influence attacking situations and score goals is evident from his average of 3.3 shot-creating actions per 90 minutes. However, his recent knee injury limited his playing time last season, and he will need to work on building match fitness. One of his standout qualities is his movement off the ball, which allows him to find space centrally or on the flanks and make key passes or play quick wall passes.
When it comes to his gaming rating according to Football Manager 2024, Smith Rowe receives a score of 78/100. This suggests that he is a Premier League-caliber midfielder with room to improve. His current ability rating is the highest among Fulham’s midfield options, and his potential ability rating is also the highest. This indicates that he could be an excellent long-term signing for the team.
In terms of financial value, Smith Rowe’s transfer receives a score of 62/100. The fee of £27 million up front with £7 million in potential add-ons seems fair considering his potential and the fact that he is a promising 24-year-old with three England caps. However, Fulham’s limited budget means that the majority of the money brought in by the sale of Joao Palhinha to Bayern Munich will be used for this signing.
The risk or reward rating for this transfer is 72/100. Smith Rowe has had some injury concerns in the past, including a groin issue that required surgery and a knee injury last season. However, if he can stay fit and get consistent playing time at Fulham, he has the potential to rediscover his form and become an exciting, goal-scoring midfielder. For Fulham, this signing represents an ambitious acquisition that adds depth to their midfield. Even if the move doesn’t work out as expected, they should be able to recoup a decent portion of their investment due to Smith Rowe’s age, nationality, and potential.
Overall, the rating for this transfer is 329/500. While Smith Rowe’s tactical fit and potential are promising, there are concerns about his recent injury history and match fitness. However, if he can stay healthy and adapt to Fulham’s system, he has the potential to become a key player for the team.