Arsenal have confirmed the departure of Emile Smith-Rowe from the club.
Sports Buddy previously reported that the 24-year-old midfielder was on the verge of completing a move to fellow London club Fulham after spending over a decade with the Gunners.
Now, it’s been confirmed that the deal has been completed, as Smith Rowe joins the Cottagers on a long-term deal, with £27 million paid upfront plus £7 million in add-ons.
He left Arsenal’s pre-season camp in the United States to complete his medical earlier this week and will be hoping to hit the ground running at Fulham after making just 25 Premier League appearances over two seasons.
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta on Smith-Rowe’s departure
Confirming Smith-Rowe’s departure, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta said, ”I’m sad that Emile is leaving us.
“But I’m excited for him to take this new opportunity at this stage of his career, when he needs to be starting matches and playing regularly.
“Emile’s commitment, attitude and energy every day was first class, always stepping up when the team needed him.
“He came into the first team and was instrumental during a difficult moment for us. He created an important impression, with his strong performances making our supporters proud.
“Emile is loved by everyone at the club and leaves us with our gratitude, absolute respect and best wishes. We all wish Emile and his family well at Fulham.”
This is a club-record fee for Fulham, and the Gunners’ biggest sale since Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain joined Liverpool for £35m in 2017.
