Arsenal ‘know’ what they must do to get Emile Smith Rowe to sign new contract

Arsenal are confident that Emile Smith Rowe will commit his long-term future to the club by signing a new contract, according to reports. Smith Rowe has been the subject of serious interest from Aston Villa in recent weeks, but Arsenal have rebuffed those approaches and will now push to tie the youngster down to a new deal.

The 20-year-old enjoyed a breakthrough campaign in 2020/21, recording four goals and seven assists in 32 appearances across all competitions.

His importance goes beyond statistics, though, with Smith Rowe becoming an instant fan-favourite due to his attacking capabilities and progression from the club’s academy.

That is one of the reasons why Arsenal have been so steadfast in their refusal to engage in negotiations with Aston Villa.

Villa have had two approaches rejected by the Gunners – one for £25million and one closer to £30m – and Arsenal are now moving to make sure Smith Rowe does not have his head turned.

Arsenal opened talks with his representatives in April after sorting out contracts for two other young stars, Bukayo Saka and Folarin Balogun, and have stepped up that process recently.

JUST IN: Tottenham ‘offer Ndombele in Aouar swap’ as Arsenal ‘pull out’

There is an acceptance that another creative midfielder is needed to play alongside or instead of the academy graduate, with no replacement found for Mesut Ozil, who joined Fenerbahce in January.

Arsenal wanted to sign Martin Odegaard following his loan spell last season but Real Madrid are reportedly keen to keep hold of him.

That means Arsenal have had to identify other targets. One of those is Lyon’s Houssem Aouar, who has been on the club’s radar for some time.

According to ESPN, Arsenal are in ‘pole position’ for his signature but they face competition from Liverpool, Manchester United and Tottenham.

Aouar is under contract with Lyon for another two years but the French side are keen to sell this summer in order to maximise the transfer fee.

Do you want an exclusive pre-season preview for YOUR club – both in your inbox and through your letterbox? Head over here to find out more and secure your copy.