Although it won’t sit well with Arsenal fans, Mikel Arteta may now need to sell Emile Smith Rowe when the January transfer window comes.
That’s off the back of reports today that Arsenal will struggle to conclude a deal for Ivan Toney in January without funds from a sale.
Moreover, the same report says that whilst Mikel Areta wants Pedro Neto, the club will instead seek a loan deal given how much Wolves would demand.
Arsenal seemingly need to raise funds, and there’s a lot of unused talent in their squad.
Of course, it was also reported today that Newcastle United would be interested in signing Smith Rowe in January.
Arsenal reportedly have a price tag of £50m for Smith Rowe, but Eddie Howe’s team would prefer a loan deal with a purchase option.
Smith Rowe is massively popular at Arsenal, the fans love him for a reason.
During the upturn of Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal tenure, Smith Rowe quickly became a vital player for The Gunners.
The ‘Croydon De Bruyne’ was handed the number 10 shirt and a lucrative new contract as well.
Arteta should let Smith Rowe leave if he’s not key to Arsenal plans
It is incredibly surprising that it’s come to this point, but neither Arsenal or Smith Rowe are getting the most from their relationship anymore.
The 23-year-old does have the ability to be crucial for top Premier League sides, yet he’s so far down the pecking order at the Emirates now.
Yes, Smith Rowe has had a significant injury, but he’s now raring to go and bereft of opportunities.
In a game in which neither Bukayo Saka or Gabriel Martinelli started against Manchester City, Smith Rowe didn’t play a minute.
It will no doubt be very emotional to watch the Hale End graduate leave the side – but it now looks best for all parties.
Arsenal reportedly need funds to pursue Arteta’s targets, and Smith Rowe needs a chance to prove he’s still a ‘superstar’.
Receive a digest of our best Arsenal content each week direct to your mailbox
