Fulham Close to Signing Emile Smith Rowe in £35M Deal

Fulham are close to reaching an agreement with Arsenal to sign midfielder Emile Smith Rowe in a deal worth up to £35 million, according to reports. Talks between the Premier League sides centre on a transfer worth up to £35 million – which would be a record acquisition for Fulham and match Arsenal’s biggest sale.

The Cottagers have been keen to add the 23-year-old to their ranks this summer, and it appears that they are now on the verge of securing his signature. Smith Rowe has been with Arsenal since joining their academy as a teenager, but has struggled to establish himself as a regular starter under Mikel Arteta.

He made just three starts in the Premier League last season, and has been linked with a move away from the Emirates Stadium for much of the summer. Fulham’s previous bid of £30 million was rejected by Arsenal, while Crystal Palace were reportedly working on a new proposal worth £35 million.

However, it appears that Fulham have now manoeuvred themselves into a position to sign Smith Rowe, and are close to reaching an agreement with Arsenal. The Athletic’s David Ornstein reported late on Wednesday evening that Fulham ‘have manoeuvred themselves into a position’ to sign Smith Rowe, with an agreement with Arsenal seemingly imminent.

Subject to a deal being struck by the clubs, Smith Rowe must undergo a medical and finalise personal terms ahead of completing the proposed move. The 23-year-old is currently in the United States with the Arsenal squad for their pre-season tour, but is expected to return to London to complete his medical and finalise the move.

The proposed £35 million fee would represent a major boost to Arsenal’s Profit and Sustainability margins, given that the sale of academy players is registered as pure profit in the club’s accounts.