Two-month Arsenal mission to extend Arteta favourite’s contract nearing completion

Arsenal.TEAMtalk

Arsenal are said to be optimistic of tying down a cornerstone of their future success to a bumper new deal, according to a reliable source.

Arsenal have endured a nightmare campaign, though did restore a measure of pride with a surprise victory over Chelsea on Wednesday night. That win keeps the Gunners in with a shot at securing European football next season. Failing to do so would leave Arsenal with free midweeks for the first time since 1995/96.


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A key performer and scorer of the only goal in their London derby victory was Emile Smith Rowe.

The youngster has burst onto the scene this season, notching four goals and seven assists across all competitions.

Both he and Bukayo Saka are seen as crucial components in Arsenal’s future. Indeed, Arteta recently set out a lofty target for Smith Rowe to aim for, indicating just how highly he is regarded by the Spaniard.

Ensuring the pair remain at the Emirates for the long-term is a high priority at the club.

Now prominent football journalist Fabrizio Romano has delivered a piece of good news regarding Smith Rowe’s contract situation.

May 13 Transfer Chatter: Man Utd search for new defender, Tottenham fight for Boateng

May 13 Transfer Chatter: Man Utd search for new defender, Tottenham fight for Boateng

Man Utd have devised a three-man shortlist for a new defender while Monaco have joined Tottenham in the chase for Jerome Boateng.

The playmaker’s current deal expires in 2023. But per Romano, Arsenal have been hard at work seeking to extend his deal since March.

There is reportedly ‘optimism’ at Arsenal that a new agreement will be completed ‘soon’.

Romano goes on to state that Smith Rowe is ‘happy and open to stay’. A five-year deal is reportedly in the works.

Tottenham seeking to derail Arsenal transfer plans

Daniel Levy TEAMtalk

Meanwhile, Tottenham are reportedly ready to try and convince on-loan Fulham centre-back Joachim Andersen to join them over north London rivals Arsenal this summer.

Andersen’s displays for the relegated Cottagers have caught the eye this season, although the 24-year-old is set to return to parent club Lyon at the end of the campaign. The defender has made 29 appearances for the Craven Cottage outfit this term, scoring once.

Spurs’ interest was first reported by BT in Denmark. That was after it emerged the player would not extend his stay at Fulham.

The Denmark international is open to a permanent switch to the Premier League, as reported by Jeunes Footeux (via Sport Witness). However, it would appear that Tottenham will have to overcome interest from the Gunners to get their man.

The report adds that Daniel Levy remains in pole position to land the defender, although Arsenal have also enquired.

READ MORE: Arsenal legend urges club to get rid of star who hasn’t proven himself