Arteta will now allow 23-year-old Arsenal ace to leave in January on one condition

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Arsenal star Emile Smith Rowe has endured another difficult season as he struggles with injuries, and he could now be allowed to leave in January.

There were transfer rumours surrounding the 23-year-old in the summer, but Mikel Arteta wanted to keep the talented midfielder, who spent most of last season absent with a long-term injury.

However, after making a return to action, and beginning to build up some fitness and form, he picked up yet another injury, and has not featured at all in over a month.

Emile Smith Rowe could leave Arsenal in January

A report from FootballTransfers has now revealed that should Arsenal receive a suitable offer, Arteta will now allow Smith Rowe to depart the club in January.

The Englishman has appeared in just 8% of Arsenal’s Premier League minutes this season, but the decision may not be a popular one given how affectionate the fanbase is towards him.

Smith Rowe became a first-team regular at a similar time to Bukayo Saka, with both players becoming the face of Arteta’s project at the club after a year of struggle, and he is one of the academy’s recent success stories.

Aston Villa still hold an interest in the player, and it remains to be seen whether they will come in with a bid. Unai Emery is a huge fan of Smith Rowe, but it is unclear what kind of fee will be needed to land him.

Should Arsenal sell Emile Smith Rowe?

The midfielder scored 10 Premier League goals in his last full season without injuries, and remains an outstanding talent.

Giving up on him now could be a regrettable decision if he moves elsewhere and rediscovers his best form.

Although there is stiff competition in Arsenal’s midfield, which the Gunners could add to in January, Smith Rowe should only be let go if an incredibly large bid is made, and he is replaced adequately.

Ahead of Saturday’s clash with Aston Villa, Emery’s side find themselves in the top three ahead of Manchester City. If they win, and are still close in the table by January, then they should be considered rivals, and therefore Smith Rowe should not be allowed to join them.

He will hope to return to action soon, but time is running out for the former Hale End star, and it will be a sad day for most Arsenal fans if he does end up departing.