Fulham hold 'strong interest' in former Huddersfield Town star also linked with West Ham and Crystal Palace

The 23-year-old’s progress has slowed at the Emirates Stadium amid stern competition for places in Mikel Arteta’s squad. He has fallen away from England contention and speculation regarding his future has been rife in recent months

The likes of West Ham United and Crystal Palace have been linked with a swoop for the playmaker, as have Aston Villa and Newcastle United. However, Sky Sports have claimed Fulham are expected to formalise their strong interest in Smith Rowe soon.

He is thought to be keen to assess all his options, with regular football a priority for the former Terriers loanee. There are also two years remaining on his deal, therefore a substantial offer may need to be tabled.

Selling Smith Rowe would have benefits for Arsenal, with his status as a homegrown player arguably an incentive when it comes to staying in line with profit and sustainability rules.

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The pocketing of a hefty fee could also free the Gunners up to invest elsewhere. However, it will still be bittersweet to see an academy graduate seek pastures new if he does indeed depart.

Arsenal loaned Smith Rowe out twice while he was cutting his teeth in the capital. He had a brief stint at RB Leipzig but it was his time in West Yorkshire that propelled him up the pecking order.

Smith Rowe spent the second half of the 2019/20 season at the John Smith’s Stadium, immediately showing his potential with a series of impressive displays.

When his time as a Terrier came to an end, he had scored two goals and registered three assists in 19 appearances.