Friends of Fulham

Watford register interest in recent Fulham loan man
Watford are interested in AC Milan full-back Fode Ballo-Toure after his loan spell with Fulham, Gianluca Di Marzio has said.

Watford are heading into their first full season under the lead of Tom Cleverley and new signings are sure to be on the agenda this summer transfer window.

The Hornets are determined to push back up the Championship table after a tough 2023/24 campaign and Cleverley's bid to do just that will be aided by some signings of his own.

Numerous players have been linked but no one has come through the door yet.

Now though, a new link has emerged, with Fode Ballo-Toure said to be on the Watford radar.

Italian reporter Gianluca Di Marzio states that there 'is a request' from the Hornets with AC Milan, Ballo-Toure's parent club. It comes after the Senegalese full-back's season-long loan spell with Fulham, where he struggled to break into the side and only featured eight times.

Another spell in England
Ballo-Toure's spell with Fulham wasn't exactly anything to rave about. He played more of a backup role with Marco Silva's side, hence his limited minutes in the Premier League.

Nevertheless, he arrives with a good pedigree behind him and in the Championship, the 27-year-old could be a decent asset for the Hornets.

Ballo-Toure has spent time on the books of AS Monaco and LOSC Lille after coming through the PSG ranks and has 26 AC Milan appearances to his name too.

He can operate as both a left-back and left wing-back, so he'd offer Watford some flexibility in terms of which system they want to use. That will likely appeal to Cleverley as he navigates his way through his maiden campaign in the dugout.

A gap in the squad
The left-hand side has been pointed out as an area that Watford need another body in ahead of next season. A move for Ballo-Toure would plug that gap if it comes to fruition.

As it stands, academy graduate James Morris is the only natural left-back on the books at Vicarage Road. Right-sided prospect Ryan Andrews has played there and Ken Sema can full in as a full-back.

Having another more natural player in that position, and one who is more defensive minded than a natural winger like Sema, will be of great use to Cleverley.

It seems any interest is only at an early stage but with Ballo-Toure looking like a decent addition, it remains to be seen whether the link comes to anything more concrete in the future.



https://the72.co.uk/2024/06/27/watford-fulham-fode-ballo-toure/

Fulham are the First Club to Approach Arsenal about Smith-Rowe
Emile Smith Rowe, once a standout performer for Arsenal, has struggled to make an impact over the last two seasons. His progress has been hampered by injuries and the influx of new talent as part of Mikel Arteta's project.

Despite being a fan favourite and a crucial part of Arsenal's rebuild alongside Bukayo Saka, Smith Rowe found himself benched for much of last season. As the summer transfer window opens, the Arsenal number 10 faces a pivotal decision about his future.

It has been reported that Arteta still remains undecided about Smith Rowe, though he believes a departure is likely in this transfer window. Edu Gaspar could generate significant funds from his sale, aiding Arsenal's pursuit of their own transfer targets. Arsenal reportedly demands £40 million for Smith Rowe, who will enter the final two years of his contract in July. However, Fulham values him at only £25 million, creating a significant gap in their valuations.

Recent reports indicate that talks have begun between Arsenal and Fulham regarding Smith Rowe's potential transfer. Fulham is the first club to approach Arsenal, seeking to strengthen their squad for the upcoming season. Despite the gap in valuations, Fulham is keen on acquiring the player, who scored 18 goals and provided 13 assists in 115 appearances for Arsenal.

Smith Rowe's reduced playing time and injury struggles have made his future at Arsenal uncertain. He made just three Premier League starts last season, leading to speculation about a move. While Arteta has nurtured Smith Rowe since his breakthrough in the 2021/22 season, Arsenal's progress toward becoming title contenders has seen Smith Rowe's role diminish.

GIVEMESPORT sources today confirm that Fulham has initiated contact with Arsenal over a potential deal. Smith Rowe, available due to his lack of game time, is valued by Arsenal at £40 million, though Fulham's offer stands at £25 million. The disparity in valuations suggests negotiations may be prolonged, but Fulham is in a position to negotiate, given Smith Rowe's unclear role in Arsenal's squad.

As negotiations continue, the future of Emile Smith Rowe at Arsenal hangs in the balance, with Fulham leading the chase to secure his signature, although Charles Watts reported yesterday that there may be other clubs involved in the bidding which may push up the transfer fee closer to Arsenal's valuation.

Watts said on his Youtube Channel: "My understanding of the situation is still the most likely scenario is that he will be going this summer; I wouldn't be surprised if we start hearing more in the next week of so regarding clubs in for Smith Rowe. There's interest from the Premier League; Fulham is understood to be one of the clubs very much in for Smith Rowe.

"Again, I wouldn't be surprised if things develop there at some point in the near future. But there's also lots of interest in Italy and Germany, as far as I am aware. His preference, though, is to stay in the Premier League; that's the league that he wants to play in."

Do you think Smith-Rowe could finally be leaving his boyhood club?



https://www.justarsenal.com/fulham-are-the-first-club-to-approach-arsenal-about-smith-rowe/369956

Fulham's best 21st century academy graduates: where are they now?

Our academy graduates have been in the news a bit recently. Ryan Sessegnon has been released from Tottenham, Matt O'Riley has won awards in Scotland, Harvey Elliott has been on the brink of the England squad, Marek Rodak has been let go after over a decade at the club and Jay Stansfield is on the verge of being a potentially key cog in Marco Silva's side. So that got me thinking, who are our most successful academy graduates from this century and where are they now?

Zat Knight

The year is 1999. Young Rushall Olympic defender Zat Knight has signed for Fulham's academy. Being semi-professional, Rushall Olympic are due no obligatory fee for the six-foot-six centre-half, but being a generous man, Mohamed Al-Fayed sends the club 30 tracksuits as a kind form of compensation. Knight went on to make his debut in the league cup in 2000/01 against Northampton Town. He would play 150 times in the Premier League for the club, before leaving for Aston Villa in 2007. In that time, Knight made two caps for England, playing twice in the summer of 2005 against the United States and Colombia. The defender retired in 2015, last playing for Reading. Now, in the summer of 2024, Knight has been participating in the popular TST tournament out in the States, playing for The CONCAFA SC.

Zesh Rehman

After making his debut for the club in 2003 against Wigan in the League Cup, Rehman went on to be the first British Asian player to play in the top division of English football. Joining the academy in the mid-90s, Rehman would eventually move on to join rivals QPR in 2006 after playing a bit-part role in Fulham's first team for three seasons. The centre-back only retired two years ago, having played more than 100 times for Southern District FC in the Hong Kong Premier League. Up until 2019, he was playing international football too, amassing 25 caps across 14 years for Pakistan, scoring once. Having spent the last two years of his time as a player-coach, the route into a coaching career had begun. Rehman now finds himself as a development coach at Portsmouth on the south coast.

Matthew Briggs

When Briggs made his Premier League debut at the age of 16 years and 65 days in May 2007, he became the youngest player in the history of the Premier League. Some 12 years later, that record was broken by another man on this list, more on that later... Briggs would go on a number of loans in the following seven seasons before eventually permanently departing in 2014. After representing England from under-16 level all the way to U21 level, Briggs eventually declared for Guyana's national team, making the last of his 17 caps in 2022, his single international goal coming in 2019. After hanging up his boots in 2023, Briggs returned to Fulham, with the role of an academy player care mentor. Like Zat Knight, Briggs also featured in this summer's TNT tournament out in the United States.

Neil Etheridge

Admittedly, Etheridge's Fulham career was hardly a successful one. His singular Fulham appearance came in a Europa League fixture against Odense, in which he could not stop Odense from scoring twice to force a draw at the Cottage, knocking Fulham out of the groups in the process. Despite this, Etheridge has forged a good career in the EFL, currently playing for Birmingham City. It is his international career, however, that he can be most proud of. Etheridge has 81 caps for the Philippines, being named national team captain in 2022. The keeper also has his own foundation set up in his home country in his name. Furthermore, he is the only Filipino to play Premier League football, after featuring for Cardiff under Neil Warnock.

Patrick Roberts

Perhaps the most 'what could have been?' player on this list. Felix Magath (yes him), pointed to Roberts as being an "extraordinary talent" after handing the then 17-year-old his Premier League debut in 2014. A year later, the teenager signed for Manchester City for a free believed to be £12m, with huge expectations attached to his name. However, his seven years at the Etihad included more loan moves than senior appearances for City, including at sister clubs Girona and Troyes. Thankfully, however, Pat seems to have found a home at long last. After joining Sunderland in 2022, Roberts has been a key cog in a Mackems side that have established themselves back in the second tier of English football. Alongside the likes of Jack Clarke, the winger has rediscovered the attacking flair and spark that got Fulham fans so excited about him a decade ago.

Moussa Dembele

While Dembele made his senior debut in the relegation season of 2013/14 against West Ham, it was the following two seasons where he really made his name in SW6. Across those years of struggle, it was he and Ross McCormack who forged a wonderful partnership up front to keep Fulham's heads above water in the Championship. Frustratingly, he left to join Celtic in the summer of 2016, going on to win the treble twice in Glasgow. After half a decade in Lyon in which the striker scored 56 times in Ligue 1, Dembele now finds himself under the stewardship of Steven Gerrard in Saudi Arabia, playing for Al-Ettifaq. Despite a promising career in the French youth sides, Dembele is still yet to make a first cap for the senior national team.



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2024-06-27-fulhams-best-21st-century-academy-graduates-where-are-they-now/

Fulham and Crystal Palace 'interested' in former Huddersfield Town star previously linked with West Ham
Fulham and Crystal Palace are reportedly interested in signing former Huddersfield Town loan star Emile Smith Rowe from Arsenal.

The playmaker is remembered fondly by the John Smith's Stadium faithful, having enjoyed a productive loan spell at Huddersfield during the 2019/20 campaign.

He has since been in and out of the Arsenal side, particularly struggling for minutes last season. The 23-year-old managed just three league starts and his lack of action has fuelled talk of a move away from the Emirates Stadium.

West Ham United have been linked with a swoop, while Aston Villa have also been credited with interest in the former Terrier. According to Sky Sports, there is interest from Fulham and Crystal Palace in securing his services.

He has two years remaining on his current deal, although is said to be keen on playing more regularly than he has been. The report claims Arsenal would be willing to seriously consider any suitable offers tabled for the Gunners academy product. As an academy graduate, the sale of Smith Rowe would represent 'pure profit' in regards to financial fair play regulations.

He is not the only Gunner being linked with a move away from the Emirates Stadium, nor is he the only one with a Yorkshire connection potentially on the move.

There is thought to be plenty of interest in former Leeds United loanee Eddie Nketiah, who like Smith Rowe has struggled for regular starts under Mikel Arteta.

Former Sheffield United goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale has also been linked with a summer move, having lost his spot as Arsenal's number one goalkeeper to David Raya.



https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-and-crystal-palace-interested-in-former-huddersfield-town-star-previously-linked-with-west-ham-4681583

Fulham forward offered to Super Lig side – Need to bring in a replacement
According to a claim in the Turkish media, Antalyaspor are showing an interest in Fulham forward Carlos Vinicius.

The Brazilian spent the second half of last season in the Super Lig when he was loaned out to Galatasaray.

Ajanspor have reported on Antalyaspor's pursuit of a centre forward after recently parting ways with Britt Assombalonga and Adam Buksa. Assombalongna has left the Turkish side after his contract expired whilst Buksa has returned to his parent club Lens after his loan spell.

It's claimed Vinicius has been offered to Antalyaspor and that the Fulham player looks to be an option for the Super Lig side this summer. The Antalya club will be looking to strengthen their squad in this transfer window after finishing a disappointing 10th in the league last season.

There are no reports of a transfer fee and whilst Antalyaspor would likely prefer a loan that seems difficult given the player only has a year left on his contract.

Vinicius made 14 appearances for Galatasaray last season, scoring two goals.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-forward-offered-super-lig-side-need-bring-replacement/

Report: Bayern Munich Pushing to Sign Everton Midfielder with PSR Deadline Pressure

Everton's Amadou Onana: A Rising Star in the Transfer Market Spotlight
Everton's Stance on Onana Amid Bayern Interest
As we edge closer to the Premier League Summer Regret (PSR) deadline, the transfer market is abuzz with speculation and strategic moves. According to a recent report by The Liverpool Echo, Bayern Munich's attention has shifted towards Everton's dynamic midfielder Amadou Onana after hitting a snag in their negotiations with Fulham for Joao Palhinha. With an initial offer around £40 million for Palhinha deemed insufficient by Fulham, the Bavarian powerhouse may find a more agreeable deal for Onana, who is valued for his youth and potential over the seasoned Palhinha.

Why Onana Is a Valuable Asset for Everton
Amadou Onana, despite being just 23, has not only showcased his skills on the Premier League stage but also caught the eye of several top European clubs. His performance has been such that Everton's management previously insisted that any club interested in him would need to "break the bank". Comparisons have even been drawn to Moises Caicedo, who joined Chelsea for a British record fee. Such high regard underscores the belief in Onana's potential to rise to the very top of European football.

Broader Implications of Onana's Possible Departure
While Everton might not achieve full market value in a hurried sale, offloading Onana could strategically bolster their financial stability and negotiation leverage, especially concerning other key players like Jarrad Branthwaite and Dominic Calvert-Lewin. The player himself seems poised to use the European Championship as a springboard for his career, having expressed ambitions to join a top club post-tournament, a sentiment captured by Het Laatste Nieuws. "At previous tournaments, you have seen that the players who did well make the step up to top clubs. That's something I strive for," Onana revealed, illustrating his personal and professional aspirations.

Market Dynamics and Player Valuations
The evolving dynamics of the transfer market, particularly under the pressure of the PSR deadline, offer a fascinating glimpse into the strategies at play. Bayern's pivot towards Onana suggests a tactical adjustment in their transfer strategy, possibly seeking a blend of youth, potential, and a more reasonable price tag, which Onana represents.

Everton's open stance on a potential deal, along with Onana's willingness and readiness to make a significant move, highlights the complex interplay between player ambitions, club strategies, and market forces. The situation encapsulates the high stakes of football's transfer ecosystem, where player careers and club fortunes hang in the balance, driven by negotiations and strategic foresight.

As the saga unfolds, the outcome will likely have significant implications for all parties involved. For Bayern Munich, securing a player like Onana could mean injecting fresh talent into their squad at a potentially lower cost than Palhinha. For Everton, while losing a player of Onana's calibre would be a considerable blow, it could also provide necessary funds and flexibility in their squad management and financial planning. For Onana, this could be the career-defining move that he has been aspiring towards, especially if he shines at the European Championship.



https://eplindex.com/113764/report-bayern-munich-pushing-to-sign-everton-midfielder-with-psr-deadline-pressure.html

Euro 2024: Timo & João In Action
Timothy Castagne helped Belgium to a second consecutive clean sheet on Wednesday, but their goalless draw with Ukraine was not enough to secure top spot in what proved to be a fascinating Group F.

Romania and Slovakia's 1-1 draw in the other match meant that all four teams finished with a record of one win, one draw and one defeat. Belgium had an identical goal difference to Romania, but scored two goals fewer, meaning they had to settle for second place and a meeting with France in the Round-of-16.

It was a frustrating afternoon for the Belgians who just could not find their cutting edge, while also being tested at the other end – Castagne was winded while making a brave block to deny Ruslan Malinovskyi.

Belgium will take on the French in Dusseldorf on Monday at 5pm, while Slovakia – for whom Marek Rodák was an unused substitute – meet England in Gelsenkirchen on Sunday, also at 5pm.

Wednesday night saw arguably the shock of the tournament so far, as Georgia – competing in their first ever Euros – defeated Portugal 2-0.

Palhinha was in from the off again and was actually one of his side's more attacking threats with a couple of decent efforts from range, as Portugal looked to recover from the early shock of going down to Khvicha Kvaratskhelia's early goal on the counter.

Georgia had little of the ball but defended brilliantly, and doubled their lead through a penalty from Georges Mikautadze, who is now the competition's top scorer with three.

Palhinha was replaced at half-time by Ruben Neves, but will be hoping for a third successive start when Portugal – who were confirmed as Group F winners before a ball was kicked on Wednesday – meet Slovenia in the Round-of-16 in Frankfurt on Monday (8pm).



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/june/27/euro-2024-timo-and-joao-in-action/

Copa América: Defeat For Bobby
Jamaica scored their first ever Copa América goal on Wednesday, but ended up slipping to a 3-1 defeat by Ecuador in Nevada.

Bobby De Cordova-Reid played the full 90 minutes, and was captain for the second half when Damion Lowe was substituted.

The Reggae Boyz fell behind with just 13 minutes played in the most unfortunate fashion, when a speculative cross from the left took a huge deflection off Coventry City midfielder Kasey Palmer and looped into his own net.

De Cordova-Reid stung the palms of Ecuador goalkeeper Alexander Dominguez with a low strike from distance, but his side were two down in first half stoppage time after a VAR-recommended penalty.

Jamaica halved the deficit after the restart when Michail Antonio converted at a corner, before Shamar Nicholson had a couple of chances to equalise – the first from a De Cordova-Reid knockout, and then seeing his header cleared off the line.

There was controversy when the referee was sent to his monitor after former Fulham defender Michael Hector hooked the ball against an Ecuador defender's arm in the area, but the official stuck with his on-field decision of no penalty.

Jamaica continued to push for the equaliser and ended up getting caught on the break in stoppage time, through Alan Minda's excellent run and finish.

The Reggae Boyz' final group match sees them take on leaders Venezuela in Texas on Sunday.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/june/27/copa-america-defeat-for-bobby/

Player learning English ahead of potential move to Fulham – Clearly keen on transfer
On Wednesday, we covered claims from Portugal that Fulham are studying the possibility of making a bid to sign Vitória Guimarães star Jota Silva.

O Jogo now state Marco Silva's side haven't yet made a concrete offer but are considering moving forward to sign the 24-year-old.

Having failed to sign Fulham's João Palhinha last summer, Bayern Munich have returned to make another attempt for the midfielder.

According to O Jogo, the Premier League side could quickly make an offer for Jota Silva if they were to sell Palhinha to Bayern.

West Ham United are said to have shown interest in the winger, but the report says they are now out of the race. This leaves Marco Silva's side as apparently the main contender.

The Portugal international, for his part, is aware of the interest from England, and is keen on making a switch to the Premier League this summer. In order to be well prepared ahead of the potential move to Fulham, O Jogo claim he is learning English.

Jota Silva has a €20m release clause, but with only a year left on his contract he may be gettable for less.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/player-learning-english-ahead-potential-move-fulham-clearly-keen-transfer/

Update on Riverside Sales
With just seven weeks until the start of our 2024/25 Premier League campaign, secure your place in The Riverside to guarantee your seat!

General admission Season Tickets have now sold out for the new campaign and with experiences in The Riverside selling fast, supporters are encouraged to explore the opportunities The Riverside has to offer.

Supporters can book a personalised in-person meeting with our sales team, where you'll be able to discuss the new world-class spaces available, and personally select your new seat in The Riverside.

Following the release of the 2024/25 Premier League fixtures, don't delay in securing your seat - we invite you to explore experiences today and get in touch to discuss options.

MATCHDAY PLUS

[AVAILABLE FOR 2024/25 SEASON INC. HOME CUP FIXTURES]

Supporters still looking to watch Marco Silva's side in action next season can guarantee their seat today with Matchday Plus – a premium general admission season ticket, providing access to a private bar and exceptional seats in the upper tier of The Riverside, nicely poised between the halfway line and penalty areas.

Matchday Plus includes extended opening hours, meaning fans can beat the matchday crowds with semi-inclusive food and drink, all situated in a dedicated lounge.

A great venue for talking a good game with fellow fans, grabbing a bite to eat, enjoying a drink and staying warm.

THE DUGOUT

[AVAILABLE FOR 2024/25 SEASON INC. HOME CUP FIXTURES]

Want to get closer than ever before to the match action? Take your place directly behind the coaching staff, with The Dugout offering seats situated on the half-way line of the lower tier.

Plus, ahead of kick-off you'll have the chance to go pitchside and watch the teams warm-up, with insight and analysis provided from those closest to the squad.

In addition, you'll enjoy access to a premium sports bar with a lively social atmosphere, slick contemporary styling and immersive audio-visual technology. Expect traditional small plates, craft ales, good wines, and great entertainment.




https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/june/26/update-on-riverside-sales/

Fulham target who compared himself to Diogo Jota is learning English amid interest
Marco Silva and Fulham have received a transfer boost with one summer target reportedly taking English lessons amid interest from the Premier League side.

Fulham will look to strengthen their squad over the summer window after slumping into the bottom half of the Premier League table last season.

Keeping hold of Marco Silva was essential for Fulham's long-term project and they must now take steps to provide him with a competitive squad.

The London outfit could have a busy summer window ahead of them with HITC reporting that Bayern Munich are now confident of striking a deal for Joao Palhinha.

However, Palhinha's sale would inject funds into the club that could be reinvested – particularly in their attacking department.

Fulham interest in Portugal ace Jota Silva
According to Portuguese outlet O Jogo, Fulham are considering moving forward with a deal for Vitoria de Guimaraes star Jota Silva.

The report adds that the 24-year-old forward has been learning English amid interest from the Premier League side.

Silva ended the 2023-24 campaign with 15 goals across all competitions having played as both a right winger and as a centre-forward.

His impressive domestic form was rewarded by Portugal boss Roberto Martinez, who called him up to the national side for the March friendlies – he missed out on their Euro 2024 squad.

Jota Silva compares himself to Liverpool's Diogo Jota
In an interview with The Guardian earlier this year, Silva drew comparisons between himself and Liverpool ace Diogo Jota.

"I can see a bit of myself in Diogo Jota's style," he said. "He is a great player."

The comparisons are easy to see – an energetic forward who can play out wide or drift centrally to cause havoc in the opposition's box.

With Fulham looking to add extra firepower to their squad, an English-learning Silva could be an option worth pursuing.



https://www.hitc.com/fulham-target-who-compared-himself-to-diogo-jota-is-learning-english-amid-interest/

Bayern Munich show their hand amid Aston Villa and Everton talks
Aston Villa face active competition from a fellow Champions League club to sign an Everton star.

Bayern Munich are reportedly weighing up an approach for Everton midfielder Amadou Onana following a breakdown in talks to sign Fulham star Joao Palhinha.

Onana, currently representing Belgium at the 2024 UEFA European Championships in Germany, has been linked with Aston Villa, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea and West Ham United over recent weeks.

Liverpool Echo reports Bayern are considering switching their attention from Fulham's Palhinha to Everton's Onana. It's claimed that the Toffees' number eight and both clubs involved are keen to progress a potential deal, particularly as new Bayern boss Vincent Kompany is a big fan of his fellow countryman.

The Times, meanwhile, reported on June 17 that Villa enquired to Everton about the possibility of signing Onana, adding another option to the midfield shortlist. It's claimed the Toffees are demanding £50 million for the Belgian as they seek to gain significant funds to alleviate concerns over the Premier League's profit and sustainability regulations (PSR).

Aston Villa now have funds for Onana deal
Villa have now been freed of their own PSR worries and can spend a little more freely, so a move for Onana could theoretically be on the cards. It's not thought to be a priority, however, as Unai Emery is already set to add Ross Barkley and Enzo Barrenechea to his midfield options.

It's worth noting, though, that Onana remains a target. The 22-year-old, who predominantly plays in a defensive midfield role, has played 72 times for Everton in all competitions since signing for £30 million from LOSC Lille in 2022. Of those appearances, 63 have been in the Premier League.



https://www.birminghamworld.uk/sport/football/transfers-bayern-munich-show-hand-aston-villa-everton-talks-amadou-onana-4682812

Emile Smith Rowe to tell Arsenal he wants to quit after Aston Villa news – sources
Emile Smith Rowe is set to inform Arsenal he wants to leave the club amid interest from Aston Villa, Fulham and Crystal Palace, sources have told Football Insider.

It is understood Smith Rowe is keen to depart the Emirates as he looks for a starting XI role elsewhere, having failed to break into Mikel Arteta's first-choice line-up.

Following a lengthy injury lay-off in 2022, Smith Rowe has struggled since to gain regular playing time for the Gunners, and has made just three Premier League starts in the last two seasons.

Aston Villa – who previously made an approach to Arsenal for the three-cap England man but were rebuffed – remain interested and possess the lure of Champions League football, while Fulham and Crystal Palace have make enquiries about a potential deal.

Aston Villa, Fulham and Crystal Palace set sights on Emile Smith Rowe
With Smith Rowe's career progressing, it looks increasingly unlikely the Hale End graduate will remain at Arsenal for the longer term.

The attacking midfielder has never been short of suitors and whilst it remains Arteta's preference to continue with Smith Rowe in the squad, another year of keeping him around will see his market value significantly fall with his contract expiring in 2026.

Arsenal are holding out for their price, which is understood to be bids in excess of £30m citing the player's age profile, homegrown premium and previously demonstrated talent.

Football Insider reported [14 June] that a £30m-plus offer would force Arsenal's hand as the club look to offload several fringe players to raise funds.

Smith Rowe himself – whose only other career experience has been short stints on loan with RB Leipzig and Huddersfield Town – will be confident he can revive his career at a new club and force himself back into England reckoning.



https://www.footballinsider247.com/emile-smith-rowe-to-tell-arsenal-he-wants-to-quit-after-aston-villa-news-sources/

Much-travelled ex-Spurs, Fulham and Millwall man becomes fourth Portsmouth signing of transfer window
Former Spurs goalkeeper Jordan Archer has become Pompey's fourth signing of the summer.

The 31-year-old left QPR at the end of last season following two years at Loftus Road, where he featured four times.

Now he has switched to Championship newcomers Pompey, signing a two-year deal, and will provide first-team competition for Will Norris.

Archer began his career at White Hart Lane, yet never made a first-team appearance, instead being loaned out to Wycombe, Northampton and Millwall.

He left Spurs and joined Millwall permanently in June 2015 and went on to feature 166 times until his departure four years later.

Since the summer of 2019, he has largely served as a number two, totalling 22 appearances over the subsequent five years during spells at Oxford United, Fulham, Motherwell and QPR.

It was during a five-week spell at the Kassam Stadium where he played with John Mousinho, featuring eight times before joining Fulham.

Pompey have been seeking to add to their goalkeeping department since releasing Ryan Schofield and Matt Macey following their League One title triumph.

Toby Steward, who signed a new two-year deal in April, remains highly regarded and will once again be sent out on loan to develop in regular first-team football.



https://www.portsmouth.co.uk/sport/football/portsmouth-fc/much-travelled-ex-spurs-fulham-and-millwall-man-becomes-fourth-portsmouth-signing-of-transfer-window-4682855

We are reminded of Patrick Roberts above.
I really thought he was the best young talent we had seen at the Cottage since Haynes and was so sorry to see him leave.

Still think at the Cottage he could have grown into a top playmaker.