What is Smith Rowes situation at Arsenal?
The 20-year-old England youth international is entering the final two years of his current contract and negotiations to settle his future are ongoing, however, there has been no breakthrough so far.
Despite the North London side refusing to entertain advances for Smith Rowe, Villa do not appear to be dropping their pursuit of a player who enjoyed an outstanding run of form in the second half of last season.
Why do Villa want him?
Having already added to their creative options in the form of Emiliano Buendia from Norwich City, Villa are keen to further bolster Dean Smiths squad and Smith Rowe has emerged as a key target.
Such work is not designed to prepare for the exit of Jack Grealish amid interest from Manchester City Villa aim to keep their captain but if he did go they would want to have sufficient cover.
Whether or not Villa manage to acquire Smith Rowe, the approaches give an indication of the 1982 European Cup winners wealth and ambition under owners Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens.
They came 11th three places and six points below Arsenal on their second campaign back in the English top-flight and, after Buendias arrival, the activity into Villa Park is likely to continue.
How has Smith Rowe done at Arsenal?
Smith Rowe joined Arsenal at the age of 10 and rose through their system before spells on loan at RB Leipzig and Huddersfield Town.
He scored four goals in 33 appearances across all competitions for Mikel Artetas men in 2020-21 and his homegrown status is especially important.
(Photo: Chloe Knott – Danehouse/Getty Images)
