It looks like Fulham is nearing the finish line in their pursuit of Emile Smith Rowe from Arsenal.
The deal, reportedly around £35 million, is set to be a significant move for the club.
As the Gunners prepare to say goodbye to one of their promising academy stars, the focus now shifts to the final touches of the transfer.
The 23-year-old midfielder recently scored in a pre-season match against Leyton Orient and is part of Arsenal’s squad touring the United States. However, it seems that a change of scenery might be on the horizon for Smith Rowe.
Fulham had an earlier bid of £30 million turned down by Arsenal, who were looking to get a bit more for their player.
Now, it seems they are closing in on a deal, according to The Athletic.
Competition and Contract Details
Crystal Palace also had their eye on Smith Rowe, but it looks like Fulham is set to win the race.
Even though the clubs are close to finalizing the transfer, Smith Rowe still needs to agree on personal terms and pass a medical examination, which could take place either in the U.S. or back in London.
What This Means for Fulham and Arsenal
If the transfer goes through, it will be a record signing for Fulham, surpassing the £25 million they spent on Jean Michael Seri six years ago.
The £35 million fee will also match Arsenal’s record sale, highlighting their readiness to offload players who aren’t in Mikel Arteta’s immediate plans. Eddie Nketiah is another Arsenal player attracting European interest.
Smith Rowe’s Arsenal Career and Future Prospects
Arsenal fans have long admired Smith Rowe as one of their top academy graduates, but his frustration with limited playing time has grown. ‘With two years left on his contract, and after a season plagued by injuries and fierce competition from players like Leandro Trossard, Bukayo Saka, and Gabriel Martinelli, it seems like a fresh start could be just what he needs.
Smith Rowe made a name for himself with 115 senior appearances for Arsenal and had a standout breakthrough year in 2018.
He even earned three caps for England between 2021 and 2022.
Despite the promising start, last season saw him limited to just three Premier League starts as Arsenal finished as runners-up behind Manchester City.
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