Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has pinpointed Emile Smith Rowe as the man who can replace Granit Xhaka this summer.
The Swiss midfielder, who has previously been linked with a move away from the Emirates, looks set to pursue a new challenge after what has been his most productive season for the club since joining in 2016. Xhaka has excelled alongside Thomas Partey, enjoying more of a free role.
However, it is reported that Bayer Leverkusen are closing in on a deal that will see the midfielder return to the Bundesliga, where he previously played with Borussia Monchengladbach. It would leave Arsenal seeking more reinforcements in the middle of the park, but Arteta has begun planning already.
Smith Rowe is of one several academy graduates in the squad but injuries and a lack of minutes has seen his development plateau. He's regularly been used in advance roles but football.london has reported that the 22-year-old has been training in a central midfield role.
Arsenal have lacked depth in that area throughout the season with Fabio Vieira occasionally being used. Oleksandr Zinchenko can also fill in when needed, but there is an acceptance that Arteta will need to bolster his options in that area ahead of a return to the Champions League.
Smith Rowe's understanding of the environment and system certainly plays into his hands with the Spaniard previously saying: “He knows how much we love him, and we know how much we missed him and how much we need his qualities. And now he needs to prove it, he needs to prove how much he wants to win, and how much he’s going to contribute to this team to be better and win. And he’s going to have to show that to get in the team."
The Gunners have been credited with a strong interest in Declan Rice, who is set to leave West Ham this summer. The England international has ambitions to play in the Champions League and is looking to take on a new challenge with Arsenal's young side a very attractive outfit to join.
Brighton's Moises Caicedo was of interest in January but the Seagulls fended off interest from the north Londoners with the player since signing a new deal. Arteta has spent big to land the likes of Gabriel Jesus, Ben White and Martin Odegaard in the last two summers.
The Emirates hierarchy are now ready to alter their wage structure in order to ensure they remain near the top of the Premier League. Arsenal are already set to hand Arteta summer funds to further strengthen his options.
