Arsenal are making progress in tying down Emile Smith Rowe to a new deal, as per Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth.
The 20-year-old enjoyed an excellent breakthrough campaign for the north London club last season, scoring two goals and assisting four times in 20 Premier League appearances.
Meanwhile, the midfielder’s future is a subject of concern for the Emirates faithful, with fellow English club Aston Villa consistently trying to snatch the youngster away from north London. Dean Smith’s side have made two bids for the Englishman’s service but the Gunners are desperate to keep hold of their academy graduate.
The journalist has stated that Arsenal are making progress in extending Smith Rowe’s contract and both parties are hopeful that a deal can be agreed upon. Sheth further claimed that, despite growing interest from Aston Villa, the north London club will not entertain any offers for the youngster. Speaking to Sky Sports, he said:
“Arsenal simply are not entertaining offers for Smith Rowe. And there are talks that are ongoing over a new contract. They have been described to me as ‘moving positively’. So that is good news for Arsenal fans. All parties are hopeful that a new contract can be agreed for Smith Rowe.”
Arsenal Fever View:
Following a promising season in the Premier League, securing Emile Smith Rowe’s long-term future will be one of the main objectives for the north London club this summer. The youngster has shown glimpses of his potential last season and could become the catalyst of the club’s success in days to come.
However, given the midfielder’s tender age, Arsenal should not impose all the responsibility on the young man’s shoulders. Mikel Arteta currently does not have any specialist creative midfielder at his disposal for next season apart from the academy graduate and putting all the faith in the 20-year-old will hamper his development.
Martin Odegaard’s presence was extremely beneficial for Smith Rowe last season as his workload was measured perfectly. The north Londoners are linked with a move for Houssem Aouar and James Maddison and they desperately need one of them.
The Leicester man will be way too expensive as we have experienced the resilience of the King Power club several times. Nevertheless, Aouar could be a good addition to Arsenal’s midfield and it would be perfect for Smith Rowe’s development as he will get the competition for the first-team places.
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