Emile Smith Rowe Nears Arsenal Exit Amid Fulham Transfer Talks
Emile Smith Rowe was notably absent from Arsenal’s 21-man lineup in Wednesday’s friendly against Bournemouth, fueling speculation about his future at the club.
Reports suggest that a transfer to Fulham is in the works, with Arsenal and Fulham reportedly close to agreeing on a £35 million deal.
Mikel Arteta used the friendly against Bournemouth, held in Los Angeles, to evaluate his squad, rotating all 10 outfield starters. However, Smith Rowe remained on the bench throughout the match, a decision that Arteta hinted was influenced by the midfielder’s impending transfer. Arteta explained, “There are things happening in the background, so we felt it was best not to use him.”
Fulham Move Looms for Smith Rowe
Fulham appears to be the frontrunner in securing Smith Rowe’s services. While personal terms have not yet been agreed upon, the player will also need to complete a medical before the transfer can be finalized.
Smith Rowe, once one of Arsenal’s most promising academy graduates, earned the No. 10 shirt at just 21 years old. However, a groin injury in 2022 limited his playing time, resulting in just four Premier League starts for Arsenal over the past three seasons.
Arsenal’s Pre-Season Tour Begins
Arsenal’s first stop on their US tour saw them face Bournemouth, with the match ending in a 1-1 draw. Arteta fielded a heavily rotated lineup, with Thomas Partey and Ben White the only holdovers from Arsenal’s final Premier League XI last season.
Fabio Vieira took advantage of the absence of some regular starters, scoring Arsenal’s only goal.
Vieira calmly converted Reiss Nelson’s cross with a volley into the bottom left corner, showcasing his potential to play a more prominent role at the Emirates this season.
Arteta paid special attention to Vieira during the match, spending extra time with the Portuguese midfielder during the mandated first-half water break.
Despite Arsenal’s initial dominance in possession, Bournemouth grew into the game, eventually leveling the score. Antonie Semenyo capitalized on a mistake by Omar Rekik, launching a deflected shot over goalkeeper Karl Hein.
Arteta’s Post-Match Reflections
Following the game, Arteta expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance, stating, “I’m really happy with the game.
Even in the first half, I think we were the team who had more chances to win the game. I felt like we played in a good rhythm, with a different level. I think it was a good game to prepare. Considering it’s pre-season, the rhythm was quite nice.”
As Arsenal continues their pre-season preparations, the potential departure of Smith Rowe marks a significant shift in the squad dynamics.
The young midfielder’s move to Fulham could provide him with a fresh start and more playing time, while Arsenal looks to bolster their lineup for the upcoming season.
Emile Smith Rowe Nears Arsenal Exit Amid Fulham Transfer Talks
