Arsenal have reportedly rejected two bids from Fulham and Crystal Palace for midfielder Emile Smith Rowe. The 23-year-old is the subject of interest from a number of clubs amid uncertainty over his future.
According to Sky Sports, the Gunners have decided to turn down the offers from the Premier League sides. No details of either of the bids have been disclosed, but it’s reported that discussions are ongoing at both clubs over whether to return with an improved offer.
Smith Rowe wants to ‘assess all options’ this summer, with regular first-team football said to be his primary motivation. The Hale End graduate’s game time under Mikel Arteta has been restricted over the previous two seasons due to injuries and the form of others.
Last campaign, he appeared just 19 times, starting just four. The season prior saw him just 15 times due to a groin injury that forced him out for over 120 days.
The club are likely to be tempted by a considerable offer for Smith Rowe. Arsenal are looking to raise funds through player sales this summer, and the 23-year-old is likely to be one of the players allowed to leave at the right price.
At the start of the summer, it was reported that talks with Smith Rowe’s entourage and Arsenal were underway over a possible contract extension. His current deal expires in two years, but an extension is expected to come about with assurances over his playing time.
Smith Rowe has returned to London Colney for pre-season training this week ahead of the 2024/25 campaign. Pre-season will give the midfielder the chance to impress Arteta in a bid to re-establish himself as a key member of the Gunners team.
