Arsenal open to Emile Smith Rowe sale in summer?

Arsenal may reportedly look to cash in on Emile Smith Rowe during the summer transfer window.

The Gunners are enjoying their best Premier League campaign for almost two decades, currently sitting five points clear at the top of the standings.

However, Mikel Arteta's squad have reach that point without being able to call upon Smith Rowe for much of the campaign due to injury.

The academy graduate has made only six substitute outings in the top flight during 2022-23, his game time reaching just 57 minutes.

On a positive note, the 22-year-old was able to return from his latest layoff to play the final eight minutes of Wednesday's 4-0 victory over Everton.

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Nevertheless, the playmaker is now very much down the pecking order at the Emirates Stadium due to Leandro Trossard's arrival from Brighton & Hove Albion in January.

According to Fichajes, Arteta and club officials may now be willing to part ways with the England international in order to raise funds for other players.

Smith Rowe still has over three years remaining on his contract with the North Londoners and is highly regarded by clubs in the Premier League and abroad.

Although Smith Rowe has struggled this campaign, he still has 18 goals and nine assists from his 89 appearances in all competitions.

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As recently as last season, Smith Rowe chipped in with 10 goals and two assists in 33 top-flight outings, and his ability to play across the forward line is another selling point from Arsenal's perspective.

Much could depend on whether Smith Rowe is willing to end his association with his boyhood club, or if he can make an impact during the remainder of the season.

Arsenal return to Europa League action next week, the first leg with Sporting Lisbon potentially being viewed as an opportunity for Smith Rowe to make his first start of the season.

Before then, Smith Rowe will hope to make another outing as a substitute in Saturday's Premier League clash with Bournemouth.