West Ham included special clause in Declan Rice to Arsenal deal to help them sign another Gunner

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West Ham United reportedly included a clause when they sold Declan Rice to Arsenal in the summer that gives them first refusal on Emile Smith Rowe.

That’s some news we weren’t expecting to hear today as every Arsenal fan is desperate for Smith Rowe to succeed at the Emirates. We really hope he does, but if a report from Football Transfers is to be believed, West Ham are waiting to pounce in case we decide to sell him.

West Ham United have first refusal on Arsenal star Emile Smith Rowe

Emile Smith Rowe is one of Arsenal’s most talented players.

The Englishman has had a very difficult time over the last 18 months due to injuries and lack of opportunities, but every Gooner knows just how brilliant a player he is.

However, if Smith Rowe doesn’t get regular game time from now until January or the end of the season, he will have a decision to make on his future. Some think Arsenal should sell him as it’s the best thing for all parties.

Newcastle United have been linked with a move to sign Smith Rowe this week, but if the latest report is to be believed, West Ham have an edge over any other club.

FT claim that when West Ham sold Declan Rice to Arsenal in the summer, it was agreed between the two clubs that the Hammers would have first refusal if Smith Rowe departs the Emirates next year.

Smith Rowe’s current contract at Arsenal does not expire until the summer of 2026, and his price has been set at £60 million for West Ham or any other club.

What is a first-refusal clause?

A first-refusal clause in a player’s contract obligates the selling club to inform the team who has the benefit of the clause of the terms they are willing to accept for the said player.

In this case, if West Ham really have first refusal on Smith Rowe, Arsenal have to inform the Hammers that they are ready to sell him before they can accept an offer from any other club.

West Ham can either match that offer and sign Smith Rowe themselves or reject their option. The latter would then completely take them out of the equation.

Although such a clause does seem scary to fans, Arsenal supporters have nothing to worry about. This only comes into play if we are ever willing to sell Smith Rowe. West Ham can’t ever force us to do that, which means Mikel Arteta and Edu will still call all the shots.