David Ornstein says Arsenal still want number 10, despite Emile Smith-Rowe emergence

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Arsenal will still look to bring in a new attacking midfielder in January or the summer, despite the emergence of Emile Smith-Rowe in the last few weeks.

The youngster has been in explosive form since breaking into the first XI and has caught the eye, along with other young players, in a number of fine Gunners performances of late.

But despite his excellence, the Athletic’s David Ornstein believes that Mikel Arteta will still look to bring someone in if he can, with Smith-Rowe looked upon as a back-up and eventual successor.

“There’s always been huge belief in Emile Smith-Rowe. He does still need to be tested and prove his fitness consistently. At his moment they see him as back up or support for a world class number ten and eventually succeeding them,” Ornstein said. (Athletic YouTube)

“They are going to try and sign someone if they can, someone better than ESR now and that’s difficult. They don’t just want any old player, they want the right player. Definitely don’t rule it out.”

The Gunners have been linked with moves for the likes of Isco and in recent days, Emi Buendia. However, both would come at a cost and Ornstein touches on both those deals being unlikely in January.

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The good thing with having Smith-Rowe, is that Mikel Arteta is in no rush to bring someone in this very moment. He can rely on the youngster for now and if he doesn’t get a January addition, it’s not the end of the world.

January is also a good time for Arteta to move people on and free up wages. He can then go again in the summer and use that free money to help strengthen the ranks.