ARSENAL are reportedly growing increasingly confident of securing Emile Smith Rowe’s long-term future.
The 20-year-old has been the subject of two failed bids by Aston Villa, believed to be in the region of £25million and £30m.
Arsenal are believed to have no interest in parting ways with the England youth international, who still has two years left on his deal.
And the Gunners are understood to be in talks with the under-17 World Cup winner about extending his stay in North London.
According to BirminghamLive, Smith Rowe is poised to sign a bumper new five-year deal after returning to pre-season training this week.
The report adds that contract talks surrounding the midfielder have progressed well with just the last details needing sorting.
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The news will come as a blow to Villa after SunSport revealed Dean Smith’s side were set to make a third offer for Smith Rowe.
The former Huddersfield loanee was a shining light in an otherwise disappointing season for Arsenal.
Smith Rowe became a key figure under Mikel Arteta last term as he chipped in with four goals and seven assists in 33 games in all competitions.
Arsenal’s desperation to secure their academy graduate’s future intensified after they failed to land fellow No10 Martin Odegaard on a permanent deal.
The Norwegian spent the second half of last season on loan in North London from the Spanish giants.
Arsenal meanwhile may look to revisit a deal for Houssem Aouar after fans noticed that the Lyon ace’s brother and agent was spotted in London.
The Gunners have reportedly made a £17million offer for the French midfielder – who scored eight goals last season.
