Crystal Palace are reportedly preparing a £30 million ($38.7 million) bid to sign versatile English midfielder Emile Smith Rowe from Arsenal this summer.
According to talkSPORT, the 23-year-old's future at the Gunners appears uncertain, and the North London club seems ready to part ways with him in the upcoming transfer window.
Smith Rowe's early promise with Mikel Arteta's side was affected by injuries and he was very much a bit-part player during last season's Premier League title challenge.
He could be tempted to pursue a new challenge under Oliver Glasner, who quickly improved Palace's fortunes after being appointed manager midway through 2023/24.
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What happened to Emile Smith Rowe at Arsenal?
Smith Rowe's journey at Arsenal has hit a rough patch. Despite starting strongly under manager Arteta, the midfielder has faced significant challenges in the past two seasons.
Plagued by fitness issues, Smith Rowe has struggled to secure a spot in the first team. He played fewer than 500 minutes across 19 appearances in all competitions during the 2023/24 season, providing only two assists.
Smith Rowe's versatility allows him to play various roles in midfield and attack, but his lack of game time has led to a drop in his stock at Arsenal. As a result, a summer exit from Emirates Stadium seems likely, and Palace have emerged as serious contenders for his signature.
Emile Smith Rowe to Crystal Palace: Transfer latest
Palace are reportedly looking for a versatile midfielder to bolster their squad after losing Michael Olise to Bayern Munich. Smith Rowe, an Arsenal homegrown talent, fits the bill perfectly.
Reports suggest the Eagles are ready to make a substantial offer for Smith Rowe, with a bid worth around £30 million ($38.7 million). This would be their improved attempt after an initial proposal was reportedly turned down.
However, it remains unclear if that sum will be sufficient to persuade Arsenal to part with Smith Rowe. Additionally, Palace will need to convince the midfielder to make the switch to Selhurst Park.
Both clubs and the player face critical decisions in the coming weeks.
