Arsenal lay out two conditions to sanction young playmaker exit this summer

Arsenal are prepared to let go of Emile Smith Rowe this summer if the player pushes for a move and a suitable offer is made, though Mikel Arteta is keen to keep the player on board.

Smith Rowe has been one of the success stories of Arsenal’s academy, breaking into the England squad and scoring 10 league goals in the 2021-22 season. However, his opportunities have been more limited due to injuries.

The midfielder has played just 33 times over the last two seasons, with only four of those being starts. Despite being tipped to play an important role in the national team, Smith Rowe’s last appearance for the England senior side came in March 2022.

Smith Rowe wasn’t included in Gareth Southgate‘s squad for that year’s World Cup or for the 2024 European Championships. However, Crystal Palace and Fulham are pushing to sign him this summer.

Emile Smith Rowe of Arsenal  (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)

Fulham have seen one bid rejected, but they – and Palace – could yet return with an improved offer.

According to The Athletic, Smith Rowe is not at the top of Arteta’s list when it comes to players to sell. Arsenal are expected to have a number of ins and outs this summer, though David Raya – on loan in North London last season – is the only permanent senior arrival.

Riccardo Calafiori is expected to join from Bologna, while the Gunners could yet add further reinforcements in midfield and/or attack. Mikel Merino of Real Sociedad is among those linked, but there could be more to come.

In order to free up funds and space, Arsenal are expected to sanction more exits after selling Mika Biereth to Sturm Graz and loaning out Albert Sambi Lokonga and Nuno Tavares.

Smith Rowe scored for Arsenal in a behind-closed-doors friendly against Leyton Orient. He will have a chance to further impress Arteta and convince the manager to keep him on board, having been named in Arsenal’s 26-man-squad for their pre-season tour of the United States.