Arsenal are not looking to sell Emile Smith Rowe in the final few days of the summer transfer window, knocking back an approach from Chelsea.

Emile Smith Rowe in training with Arsenal (Photo via Arsenal.com)
Emile Smith Rowe in training with Arsenal (Photo via Arsenal.com)

The Daily Mail report that Arsenal have knocked back Chelsea’s initial approach for Emile Smith Rowe, with the Gunners unwilling to sell the academy graduate to a rival.

Sami Mokbel reports that an offer way above market value may still tempt Arsenal, and Chelsea have shown a willingness to include players in a deal. But it seems there’s a minimal chance of such a transfer taking place.

Charles Watts confirms on his YouTube channel that Arsenal are not looking to sell Smith Rowe to Chelsea or anyone else, and it would take a ridiculous bid to potentially change the club’s thinking.

James Benge adds that he hasn’t heard of any other team that’s really chasing Smith Rowe right now, so an Arsenal departure seems unlikely.

Emile Smith Rowe runs with the ball in training with Arsenal (Photo via Arsenal.com)
Emile Smith Rowe runs with the ball in training with Arsenal (Photo via Arsenal.com)

Smith Rowe’s future seemed to be resolved earlier in the summer, with the Daily Mail reporting that the player had been informed by Arsenal that he’s in Mikel Arteta’s plans for the 2023/24 campaign, and the Gunners intend to keep him around this summer.

Smith Rowe had been linked with West Ham, Aston Villa, and Brighton, but at the time it seemed he was set to stay at Arsenal following his conversations with the club.

That wasn’t the first we’d heard that Smith Rowe was set to stay, as David Ornstein reported in May that Arsenal had no intention to sell him this summer.

england v portugal quarter final uefa under 21 euro 2023
KUTAISI, GEORGIA: Emile Smith Rowe of England runs with the ball whilst under pressure from Francisco Conceicao of Portugal during the UEFA Under-21 Euro 2023 Quarter Final match between England and Portugal at Shengelia Arena on July 02, 2023. (Photo by Levan Verdzeuli/Getty Images)

Smith Rowe still has a contract until 2026, and he impressed with the England u21s at the European Championships.

The academy graduate made 15 appearances for Arsenal last season amid injury setbacks, providing one assist in the comeback win over Bournemouth and another on the final day of the season against Wolves.

The England international came off the bench in the Community Shield at the start of this month, but he’s yet to make an appearance in Arsenal’s three Premier League games so far – despite making the squad on each occasion.