Arsenal are facing a pivotal decision regarding Emile Smith Rowe’s future, as they contemplate his sale to strengthen their squad.

Arsenal are reportedly re-evaluating their stance on Emile Smith Rowe, considering his sale to generate funds to allow them to add to the squad this transfer window.

The 23-year-old midfielder, an academy graduate and a homegrown player, has seen limited game time this season since returning from injury, sparking speculation about his future at the Emirates.

Despite interest from other clubs, including a rejected summer enquiry from Chelsea, Smith Rowe remains committed to Arsenal, the club he considers his own.

However, he is acutely aware of the importance of not letting the prime years of his career slip away. This sentiment was echoed in a report by The Athletic, which suggested that Arsenal‘s long-held position of not selling Smith Rowe might shift this year.

Financial considerations are at the forefront of Arsenal‘s decision-making process. With the club facing constraints under profit and sustainability rules (PSR), a potential sale of Smith Rowe could be financially beneficial.

As an academy product, any transfer fee for him would be recorded as pure profit, aiding Arsenal in their pursuit of new signings.

This financial angle is further highlighted by interest from other Premier League clubs.

Aston Villa‘s longstanding interest in Smith Rowe is well documented, with attempts to sign him in 2021 for £25m and £30m, both swiftly rejected by Arsenal.

Villa, undeterred, remain interested, along with Newcastle United, who have been tracking the player for some time.

Additionally, West Ham United expressed interest in October.

Smith Rowe’s recent injury, which kept him out of action in November and early December, has likely impacted the immediate interest in him this January.

Though he has returned to the pitch, his limited gametime of less than 20 minutes across four appearances in all competitions may have cooled the pursuit from other clubs.