Fulham are set to submit an improved offer for Arsenal midfielder Emile Smith Rowe, according to reports from Sky Sports. The Cottagers have already had two bids rejected by the Gunners, who are holding out for a higher fee.
Last week, Now.Arsenal revealed that Fulham’s second bid, which was close to £35 million, was turned down by Arsenal. This followed an initial offer of £30 million plus add-ons. Despite these rejections, Fulham remain undeterred in their pursuit of the 23-year-old Hale End graduate.
Smith Rowe, who has been with Arsenal since joining the academy at age nine, is highly valued by manager Mikel Arteta. The midfielder, capped three times by England, has made 115 first-team appearances and scored 13 goals since his debut in 2018. However, his playing time has been limited recently, starting only three Premier League games last season due to injuries.
Fulham manager Marco Silva is keen to bolster his attacking options, particularly with uncertainties surrounding Willian’s potential move to Saudi Arabia and Bobby De Cordova-Reid’s contract situation.
Smith Rowe is reportedly eager for regular first-team football, which he may struggle to secure at the Emirates Stadium. Despite his injury setbacks, including a significant knee injury and an ankle bruise last season, Arteta has consistently expressed his support for the young midfielder.
In an April statement, Arteta praised Smith Rowe’s qualities and potential, emphasising the need for more playing time to showcase his skills. “I’m really happy with Emile,” Arteta said. “He’s on the right trajectory now, he’s settled, and he’s training really well. What he needs now is chances to put all those qualities on the pitch.”
