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‘Real talent’: Gary Lineker thinks £20,000-a-week Aston Villa target is quality, amid reports

Photo by Plumb Images/Leicester City FC via Getty Images
Photo by Plumb Images/Leicester City FC via Getty Images
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According to The Telegraph, Aston Villa are keen to sign Arsenal wonderkid Emile Smith Rowe, who is still yet to sign a new contract.

After the 20-year-old enjoyed a breakthrough season, the Gunners want to tie him down to a new long-term contract.

However, Smith Rowe is yet to put pen to paper, with Aston Villa keeping a close eye on his situation.

Dean Smith is keen to add a fresh source of creativity to his side, and Norwich maestro Emiliano Buendía is also being considered.

Interestingly, Arsenal are also said to be interested in the Argentine.

If the Villans can sign Smith Rowe – which seems unlikely, in our view – they’ll be getting a fine footballer.

Arsenal’s No.32 scored four goals and provided seven assists this season.

After he scored the winner against Newcastle in the FA Cup, Gary Lineker heaped praise on him alongside Ian Wright.

Emile Smith Rowe arsenal
Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images

The BBC Match of the Day host said: “He really is (quality). He looks a real player, real talent, took his goal very well.”

Surely Smith-Rowe won’t leave Arsenal

From our point of view, Smith Rowe wouldn’t leave the Emirates Stadium unless Arsenal forced him out.

The attacking midfielder has previously spoken about his love for the Gunners, and how he wants to become an Arsenal legend.

In the matchday programme ahead of a game against Dundalk, Smith Rowe wrote: “As an Arsenal fan, it would be a dream to become an Arsenal legend if I’m honest. I want to win trophies with the team because I can’t express how much love I have for the club.

“I could see myself being a one-club man if everything works out.”

Emile Smith Rowe arsenal
Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images

Unless Arsenal completely mess up negotiations over the £20,000-a-week man’s new contract, we’re sure the Croydon-born playmaker will stay.

Smith could be wasting his time pursuing this deal, in all honesty.