Arsenal playmaker ‘up for grabs’ in January - Aston Villa and Newcastle United both want transfer

Arsenal playmaker and Aston Villa target Emile Smith-Rowe is reportedly weighing up leaving the Emirates Stadium in the January transfer window in search of better game time.

The versatile attacking midfielder hadn’t started for the Gunners in 499 days before the Carabao Cup victory over Brentford midweek and his Premier League minutes have been sparse.

Previously a key player under Mikel Arteta, the 23-year-old scored 10 league goals in 33 appearances during the 2021/22 season and quickly became a fan favourite.

Injuries have definitely halted his progress since - and that’s of course out of Arteta’s control - but he hasn’t been a regular fixture even when he’s been back to full fitness.

Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard have all been ahead of Smith-Rowe in the pecking order. Centre forward Eddie Nketiah has even been played out wide instead.

90min reports Smith-Rowe is considering the possibility of departing Arsenal if the situation doesn’t improve. It’s claimed Aston Villa, Brighton & Hove Albion and Newcastle United are keen.

The former England Under-21 international, who has a contract at the Emirates until 2026, could be tempted if he’s promised a more important role at any of those clubs.