Mikel Arteta now willing to sell £60m player ‘Arsenal fans love’ in January

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Perhaps the news that some Arsenal fans didn’t want to hear ahead of January, but Mikel Arteta is now willing to sell one of their beloved stars.

According to Football Transfers, Arsenal will now be willing to listen to offers for Emile Smith Rowe, a player so intrinsically linked to the club.

The report suggests that Smith Rowe is now considered for sale, alongside the likes of Eddie Nkeitah.

Moreover, the information says this was a move that could have happened in the summer were Arsenal successful in pursuit of Ilkay Gundogan.

Arsenal are said to be right on the brink of Financial Fair Play restrictions, which is limiting what they can achieve in January.

And should Arsenal receive an offer close to £60m for Smith Rowe, a player rarely used even when fit, that could create an opportunity.

Emotion aside, a sale makes sense – Smith Rowe isn’t making progress and Arsenal aren’t benefiting from his quality.

However, when a Hale End academy graduate reaches the first team and picks up the #10 shirt, it’s hard to ignore the heart for some.

Mikel Arteta is willing to sell Arsenal star Emile Smith Rowe in January

Gabriel Agbonlahor was recently giving his thoughts on Smith Rowe’s future.

The pundit said: “Say January comes and Arsenal have to sell somebody, have to for Financial Fair Play to bring Toney in, who are you selling?

“I said Smith Rowe, but I know Arsenal fans love him, but is he going to be a starter in the future? I don’t see it.”

Of course, elements of that opinion now seem to be shared by the decision makers at Arsenal.

The situation does have parallels to that of Aaron Ramsdale’s.

Two players loved by people at the club and by fans – and probably even Mikel Arteta for that matter.

But the reality is that Arsenal’s project is moving beyond them – replacements have come in.

And whilst it’s hard to admit, there’s little point preventing these players from achieving minutes elsewhere.

Of course, the problem comes in the form of strengthening a rival.

Aston Villa are often linked with Smith Rowe, and Arteta will not want to strengthen a team Arsenal are competing with in January.

It’s a difficult one to balance.

However, these movements do now explain why Arsenal have been intently scouting one £35m Bundesliga talent of late.