The Express claim Emile Smith-Rowe could now be ‘at risk’ at Arsenal if the Gunners manage to pull off the double signing of Fabio Vieira and Raphinha. A deal for Vieira is expected be confirmed in the coming days.
Reports emerged late last week that a deal to sign 22-year-old midfielder Vieira was agreed, worth £34million and £46,000 a week. It comes after a wonderful 21-22 campaign, in which Vieira had a hand in 23 goals.
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A move for Raphinha is slightly less likely. The Athletic say Arsenal want to sign Raphinha – who is hell-bent on a move to Barcelona. However, the Gunners face competition from both Tottenham and Chelsea.
Vieira is close, then. Raphinha, is a possibility. But the Express delivers some alarming news that it could leave Smith-Rowe at risk. Indeed, Vieira and Raphinha operate in the two positions Smith-Rowe is capable of playing.
Smith-Rowe ‘at risk’ at Arsenal if Gunners land Vieira and Raphinha
Smith-Rowe can play as a 10, and off the left. He is much more effective off the left than the right, as it allows him to cut inside and utilise his playmaking skills. But Gabriel Martinelli overtook him on the left last term.
Martin Odegaard is first choice as a 10, meaning Vieira is likely to compete the Norwegian for that role. Bukayo Saka will start no matter what, whether that is on the left or right, and Raphinha is a right winger.
So, Smith-Rowe could be third choice for the 10 role, and on the left. If that is the case, the England international and Hale End Academy Product has got to consider leaving the club this summer.
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