Arsenal confirm Emile Smith Rowe contract extension to end transfer uncertainty
Emile Smith Rowe has signed a new long-term contract with Arsenal, ending months of speculation over the possibility of a summer move to Aston Villa. The young midfielder has also been handed the coveted No 10 shirt, most recently occupied by Mesut Ozil, ahead of next season.
Smith Rowe has been heavily linked with Villa since the beginning of the summer window, with the west Midlands club reportedly seeing two bids rejected for the 20-year-old.
However, any lingering hopes of securing a deal appear to have been quashed by the midfielder’s decision to commit his future to the Gunners.
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta reacted to the news by highlighting Smith Rowe’s excellent attacking nous and the lofty potential he will be expected to deliver on when the new season gets underway.
“As we all saw last season, Emile is an intelligent player with excellent ability,” said the Spaniard.
“His sharpness on the turn and exceptional vision have already made him a key player for us. His attitude and willingness to learn have also been very impressive.
