Arsenal: The Gunners have agreed Fulham to sign Emile Smith Rowe for £34 million. For both teams, the agreement represents a big change. Before signing his deal at Craven Cottage, Smith Rowe will shortly be flying for his medical appointment.
2020 saw Smith Rowe, an Arsenal youth graduate join the senior team. He first surprised but battled with ailments. He struggled to get frequent playing time under Mikel Arteta. Last season he was fit, although he only participated in 19 games, accumulating fewer than 500 minutes on the field. Angry by the lack of possibilities, Smith Rowe looked for a change to provide more regular first-team performance.
This Arsenal Player Is Leaving For £34 Million
Arsenal decided to let him go, after their financial needs were satisfied. Fulham saw a chance and went for the offensive midfielder 24 years old. Having difficulties in the last third last season, Fulham wants to improve their offensive options. With Andreas Pereira already in their ranks as a number ten, Smith Rowe may fight for that position or play on the flanks, therefore offering variation to their team.
Smith Rowe’s move to Fulham marks a step toward consistent playing time and major contribution to his new squad. With this acquisition, Fulham is clearly aiming for top half of the league this season. Smith Rowe is their club record signing with the £34 million agreement, which comprises £7 million in add-ons and £27 million as a set price.
Both sides could gain from this movement. Regular game time at Fulham will allow Smith Rowe to grow personally and show himself. Fulham acquires a gifted and flexible player in meanwhile who can improve their offensive strength.
Regarding Smith Rowe’s career, this action appears to be wise. Fulham gives him the stage on which to routinely showcase his ability. Offloading a player not receiving enough minutes helps the Gunners balance the team or create space for future additions. This agreement shows the strategic actions taken by both teams in preparation for the next season.
More news:
Marseille displays interest in Arsenal attacker Eddie Nketiah, which suggests a possible summer relocation. On discussions over the 25-year-old, the two teams run across a hurdle, however. Expert French football player Jonathan Johnson notes that the clubs have different value, which throws off the contract. Nketiah wants to leave Arsenal for regular play time and has agreed on personal terms with Marseille. His struggle to find a steady starting point in North London has left him hungry for a new start. Marseille presents him with the possibility to start his career with consistent football.
Arsenal has to take care of its striking alternatives; Gabriel Jesus only scored four league goals in previous season. The Gunners want a more prolific attacker if they are to challenge Manchester City for the crown. The squad depth of City shows Arsenal’s room for development. Regular Ligue 1 playing times would help Nketiah grow. In the Premier League, he has showed glimpses of brilliance; he might perform consistently in Marseille. The change would enable him to concentrate on his football and realize his potential.
Arsenal wants to close the agreement quickly so that Nketiah may guarantee his future. They also want to improve their team concurrently before the transfer market shuts. The Gunners need greater depth to contend properly as they have fallen short of the league crown in past seasons.