West Ham have been given a boost in their chances of securing the services of Arsenal attacking midfielder Emile Smith Rowe.
Journalist Charles Watts claims there are “several clubs” pursuing the 23-year-old but his “preference” would be to stay in England if he does leave the Emirates over the coming months:
“Talks over his long-term future will now take place, with several clubs – both in England and abroad – keeping tabs on the England international.”
“West Ham had a loan enquiry swiftly knocked back in January, but they have yet to follow up that interest now David Moyes has been replaced by Julen Lopetegui. If Smith Rowe is to leave Arsenal, his preference would be to stay in the Premier League.”
Will West Ham revive their interest in Smith Rowe?
As Watts mentions, the Hammers did make an approach for the player during the last transfer window but a lot now will depend on technical director Tim Steidten and new manager Julen Lopetegui.
Recruiting a new attacking midfielder will not be top of the agenda, with a striker and a centre-back likely to take precedence, but Lucas Paqueta’s situation could force them into signing a replacement.
Paqueta’s future could have a significant bearing on the club’s transfer plans
If the Brazilian international is found guilty of spot-fixing by the FA, he could be set for an extended period out of the game. It should be noted, though, that the player was already a transfer target for Manchester City so West Ham should not be completely unprepared in terms of having replacements lined up.
The fact that Smith Rowe can play as a no.10, no.8 or on the left wing means he could provide the necessary cover for Paqueta. The Irons may, however, have other transfer targets in mind as well.
