Arsenal Plans To Hand English Midfielder Long-Term Deal Despite Injury History

KEY POINTS

Arsenal plans to secure Emile Smith Rowe on a long-term basis
Smith Rowe is seen as a young rising star who may blossom under Mikel Arteta's tutelage
The Gunners will likely address Smith Rowe's history of injuries

Arsenal is expected to prowl the free-agent market for new talent although they will get to that once they address current players on the roster.

One name that has reportedly draw interest is Emile Smith Rowe, a 20-year-old midfielder who has shown glimpses of promise.

Smith Rowe got his first English Premier League appearance from Mikel Arteta on Boxing Day, and he did not disappoint.

He provided the spark against Chelsea, and now the Gunners want to keep him on a long-term lease.

His contract runs through 2023, but with multiple teams interested, Arsenal wants to make sure he does not leave the Emirates Stadium.

Among the teams reportedly interested in him is Aston Villa. The Lions have their eye on the wonder kid.

With no agreement in place, Aston Villa is allegedly ready to launch an ambitious bid for the attacking midfielder, the Telegraph reported.

Aware of the Lions' interest, the Gunners are now negotiating with Smith Rowe’s representatives to spoil those plans.

A contract extension with Smith Rowe is made a priority by head of football operations Richard Garlick this summer, Football London reported.

This becomes the latest update since Arteta was quizzed on the status of Smith Rowe. He confirmed that negotiations are underway, and those discussions will be held in the summer.

As far as the Gunners manager is concerned, Smith Rowe has earned the right to have his contract reviewed.

The Gunners see Smith Rowe as one of their tickets to the future. Along with Bukayo Saka, the two are seen as bright spots for Arsenal despite them coming off a disappointing season.