West Ham remain “interested” in signing Arsenal attacking midfielder Emile Smith Rowe, according to journalist Seb Ecrivain.

The French reporter says that the Gunners are prepared to sell the England international this summer if they receive a “good offer” and the player would be “tempted” by a switch to the London Stadium with the promise of more first-team football:

⭐️ EXCLU ⭐️ West Ham s’intéresse de prêt à la situation de Emile Smith Rowe. Le joueur de 23 ans , ne sera pas retenu par Arsenal en cas de bonne offre cet été. Il est tenté par le temps de jeu que pourrait lui donner les Hammers. #Mercato #Arsenal #WestHam pic.twitter.com/fgchML4AA0

— Seb Ecrivain Foot (@SebEcrivainFoot) March 8, 2024

Smith Rowe has been regularly linked with the Hammers over the past 12 months but the main stumbling block has always been Arsenal’s asking price.

It has been claimed that Mikel Arteta’s side could ask for as much as £60m for the 23-year-old, which would break West Ham’s transfer record.

Smith Rowe’s injury history is a concern

Since turning professional in 2018, the midfielder has spent no less than 390 days on the sidelines due to fitness problems, missing 78 games for Arsenal in total.

However, it must be pointed out that over the last two seasons, Smith Rowe has spent most of his time on the substitutes bench rather than in the treatment room. Many believe he could blossom if he starts to play on a more regular basis.

West Ham may consider him as a replacement for Paqueta

Lucas Paqueta has been heavily linked with a move away from the Irons, with the likes of Manchester City said to be keen on securing his signature.

While a transfer may still depend on the outcome of an investigation into betting allegations, he does have a release clause that means he can leave for £85m. If that is triggered, West Ham will need to find a replacement. That is why the rumours about Smith Rowe do make quite a lot of sense.