Arsenal ‘swiftly’ snub Chelsea ‘approach’ as Blues have plan to ‘sweeten’ deal with ‘tempted’ Arteta | OneFootball

Emile Smith Rowe has been linked with a shock move to Chelsea.

Arsenal would be willing to listen to offers ‘way above market value’ for Chelsea-linked midfielder Emile Smith Rowe, according to reports.

The Blues are reportedly interested in signing Smith Rowe, who has had a difficult 12 months in north London.

2021/22 was an incredible campaign for the 23-year-old as he became a crucial player for Arsenal and picked up three caps for England, scoring his first international goal in a World Cup qualifier against San Marino.

Injuries have been a constant burden in Smith Rowe’s career and it has really slowed down his development over the last year.

The addition of Fabio Vieira did not help the England midfielder’s chances of playing as well. Across all competitions last term, Smith Rowe played 208 minutes across 14 appearances, none of which were as a starter.

He remains a fan favourite at the Emirates and Arsenal fans are balking at the thought of him leaving the club, let alone to Chelsea.

Mauricio Pochettino is believed to be keen, however, as he searches for a versatile attacking midfielder.

At 23 years of age, Smith Rowe would fit Chelsea’s recent transfer philosophy, though this does seem like a very unrealistic transfer unless the Blues make a monstrous bid.

A report from The Times recently said Arsenal are ‘willing’ to sell Smith Rowe, who ‘has been offered to other unnamed Premier League clubs’.

And there has been an update from Sami Mokbel for the Daily Mail.

It is claimed that the Gunners have ‘knocked back’ an opening approach from Chelsea for Smith Rowe.

Chelsea are actively searching for a creative midfielder and the Arsenal star is one of many Pochettino’s side have ‘enquired about’.

Arsenal’s answer was ‘short and swift’ as they have no intention to sell Smith Rowe to a club they see as a ‘direct competitor’ in the Premier League.

The report does say that Mikel Arteta would be ‘tempted’ to sell Smith Rowe if Arsenal receive an offer ‘way above market value’.

There is a ‘minimal chance’ the player will join Chelsea, however, who ‘have shown a willingness to include players as a sweetener in any deal with Arsenal’.

It is added that fellow Londoners West Ham showed an interest earlier this summer. You would be surprised to see them go back in for Smith Rowe after completing the signing of Mohammed Kudus.

Do not be surprised to see the 23-year-old England star ‘generate further interest heading into the final days of the transfer window’, the report adds.