Arsenal willing to sell Emile Smith Rowe after Chelsea approach

Arsenal are willing to sell midfielder Emile Smith Rowe following an approach from Chelsea, according to The Times.

The 23-year-old had a difficult 2022/23 season after an early groin surgery and he managed under 200 minutes over the entire campaign.

Smith Rowe played a big part in England’s triumph at the Under-21 European Championships, but he has yet to feature in the league this term.

The club graduate has been an unused substitute for the first three games, and it is now claimed that he is ‘frustrated’ with his current role.

The Gunners have not set a valuation for him, but The Times report that he has also been offered to other unnamed Premier League clubs.

Mikel Arteta’s side currently have a net spend of £170 million this summer, and they are planning to recoup more funds with departures.

Smith Rowe could leave before transfer deadline

Smith Rowe was once considered as an undisputed starter for the Gunners, but the situation has completely changed over the last 18 months.

Gabriel Martinelli has become a guaranteed starter on the left wing since his career-changing season in 2021/22. He now has strong competition from Leandro Trossard.

Meanwhile, Martin Odegaard is a nailed-on starter in the number 10 role as the captain. Fabio Vieira is currently preferred over Smith Rowe for the number eight spot.

Vieira was a surprise replacement for Kai Havertz against Fulham, but the Portuguese produced a wonderful cameo by winning a penalty and providing an assist.

In our view, the Gunners could part ways with Smith Rowe for the right price. He is valued at £30 million by Transfermarkt, but the club could look for at least £50m to sell.

In the case of Chelsea, it could be much higher due to the rivalry. Smith Rowe could be the second high-profile graduate to leave the club after Folarin Balogun, who is joining Monaco.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com