Chelsea have been linked with a surprise move for Arsenal playmaker Emile Smith Rowe, a target for Aston Villa and Newcastle United.
A report from 90min claims that Chelsea made an approach to sign 23-year-old Arsenal midfielder Emile Smith Rowe. But the Gunners have now rejected their advances. However, clubs like Aston Villa and Newcastle United remain interested in the talented young midfielder, and it will be interesting to see if they can convince Arsenal to sell the player.
Smith Rowe was regarded as one of the finest young talents in the Premier League when he broke through to the first-team scene at Arsenal. However, he had persistent injury problems last season and was unable to showcase his qualities on a regular basis.
As a result of that, he lost his place in the starting lineup and it remains to be seen whether Arsenal decide to let him leave this summer. If the Gunners do not want to sell him permanently, a loan deal could be ideal for all parties as well.
The 23-year-old is a prodigious talent with a big future ahead of him, and he needs to play regularly at this stage of his career. Regular football at Aston Villa or Newcastle United could help him develop further. But Arsenal might not entertain offers from a direct rival like Newcastle.
Meanwhile, Chelsea are reportedly looking to bring in a playmaker after failing to sign Michael Olise. Smith Rowe would have added creativity and goals to the side. He is versatile enough to operate as the central attacking midfielder as well as a winger.
On the other hand, it will be interesting to see how Aston Villa accommodate him in the starting lineup, especially now that they have signed Nicolo Zaniolo. Unai Emery also has players like Emiliano Buendia at his disposal.
As far as Newcastle United are concerned, the Magpies could definitely use more creativity and goals in the final third and Smith Rowe could be the perfect addition for them. The Tyneside outfit could use his linkup play and creativity from the central areas of midfield.
Eddie Howe has done well to nurture young players throughout his managerial career, and he could help the 23-year-old Arsenal midfielder get back to his best. The Gunners already have Martin Odegaard and Fabio Vieira in the midfield unit.
So Smith Rowe might not get ample game time this season. It would make sense for both parties to go separate ways. The 23-year-old will look to resurrect his career, and Arsenal could use the proceeds from his sale to sign quality players in the other areas of their squad.
Chelseas offer of £40 million was not enough.