Fulham make Arsenal midfielder 'transfer priority'

Fulham have identified Arsenal's Emile Smith Rowe as one of their top priority signings for this summer's summer transfer window and are readying an offer for the midfielder, according to a report.

The 2023/24 season proved a difficult one for Smith Rowe, who recorded just 19 appearances across all competitions for the Gunners. He suffered several injuries throughout the campaign, and struggled to earn his place in the starting lineup.

The Daily Telegraph report Smith Rowe could be offered a route out of Arsenal as Fulham are keen on offering the midfielder a move to Craven Cottage.

Fulham are looking to strengthen in attacking areas in the transfer window. Brazilian veteran Willian is considering offers from Saudi Arabia and Bobby De Cordova-Reid's future also remains uncertain, with the 31-year-old set to be out of contract in June. The latter recently been offered a new two-year contract, but reports state that an agreement has not yet been reached.

Arsenal, meanwhile, are open to offers for a range of squad players this summer, with Aaron Ramsdale and Eddie Nketiah joining Smith Rowe in searching for a new club to play regular football.

A sale for Smith Rowe would prove even more profitable for the club, as the playmaker is a graduate of Arsenal's academy system. He currently has two-years left on his contract, after signing an extension in 2021.

It remains unknown whether Smith Rowe will be open to leaving his boyhood club, after previously choosing to stay and fight for his place in the first team. However, if Arsenal wish to afford new players in the summer, they could be forced into a sale.

Smith Rowe became a fan favourite at the Emirates Stadium during Arsenal's resurgent 2021/22 season, forcing his way into the England setup. Since then, he has played only 33 games for the Gunners, with most of those appearances coming from the bench.

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