'Complete disaster' - Arsenal sent Smith Rowe warning

The Gunners academy product put in some bright performances last term and has caught the attention of a Premier League rival.

Emile Smith Rowe leaving Arsenal for another Premier League club would be a “complete disaster”, says Nigel Winterburn.

Smith Rowe was a silver lining for Arsenal in an otherwise disappointing 2020-21. The youngster enjoyed a fine breakthrough season, notching up two goals and four assists in 20 league games, even though his side finished eighth in the Premier League table.

There have been talks that the Gunners plan on rewarding the 20-year-old with a contract extension despite his current deal running until 2023.

Elsewhere, it has been reported Aston Villa are keen on signing him, raising a few question marks on the attacking midfielder’s future at the Emirates.

“If we were to let him go it would be a disaster, it would send out completely the wrong messages to our supporters,” ex-Arsenal full-back Winterburn told Goal.

“He’s a young player who’s had his breakthrough season, he’s been hugely impressive, and we cannot afford to let him go.

“I do genuinely believe it would have such a negative impact on the club, we’ve got some good attacking young talent and to sell to another Premier League club would be a complete disaster.”