Emile Smith Rowe is attracting interest from Arsenal’s London rivals Fulham as well as Napoli, talkSPORT understands.
But it is believed that the Cottagers are facing an uphill battle in being able to convince the 23-year-old to make the switch.
The Gunners star is a transfer priority for Marco Silva’s side as they look to add crucial quality ahead of the new season.
However Fulham face a tricky test to secure a deal, with Serie A side Napoli also interested in a move.
The Italian side are looking to rebuild after a disappointing tenth-placed finish after failing to defend their Scudetto title.
Aston Villa are also interested in a move for the midfielder, however their interest could hinge on their ability to offload players first.
Crucially, Unai Emery’s side would be able to offer him Champions League football though.
In January, Smith Rowe was the subject of loan interest from West Ham, but opted to stay at the Emirates to challenge for his place.
Smith Rowe has fallen down the pecking order at Arsenal having started just four times for the Gunners in all competitions during the 2023/24 campaign.
It’s been over two years since the Hale End graduate got on the score sheet for Arsenal, which came in the 4-2 win away at Chelsea in April 2022.
Injuries have played a big part in his struggles in north London, but given his undoubted talent, the three-cap England international will be keen to show his quality on a weekly basis moving forward.
Martin Keown discussed Smith Rowe’s situation on talkSPORT in January and said that he should be sold if he’s not in Mikel Arteta’s plans.
He said: “I’m worried for Smith Rowe not getting enough football.
“But they won’t let him go on loan to West Ham. They want cash for players now, don’t they? If they’re going to sell, that decision needs to be made.
“It might be that they think ‘okay, let’s give him one more chance on loan to see if he is what we think he is because he’s had so many injuries’.
“I think if Arsenal are looking to do anything or do some business and want to get a striker, there’s talk about the narrative that they’re not scoring goals, maybe this is the best way of raising some cash.
“I don’t want to see him go, I think he’s an outstanding talent. But obviously, with financial fair play, Arsenal are going to have to make something happen.”
News Summary:
- Fulham face uphill battle to convince Arsenal star Emile Smith Rowe to sign amid Serie A interest
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