Havertz signing prompts Arsenal star to drop HUGE hint about future

Tom Hancock

• 1 Jul 2023 15:39 BST
• 3 min read

Emile Smith Rowe has expressed his delight at Arsenal’s signing of Kai Havertz from Chelsea – and the expected arrival of Declan Rice from West Ham.

Havertz’s £65m arrival has only increased competition for attacking spots in Mikel Arteta’s side, but Smith Rowe is relishing the challenge that awaits.

Smith Rowe’s future has seemed uncertain in recent months, with Aston Villa linked with a summer swoop for the Gunners academy product and England international, 22.

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Speaking to The Sun while away with England’s U21s at the European Under-21 Championship in Georgia and Romania, Smith Rowe said of Arsena’s transfer business so far this window: “I see what happens and obviously it’s good for the club to add strength to the team.

“I feel like the additions we’re making are going to really help the team progress again. It’s really exciting, so hopefully we can go one step further next season.

“Of course [Havertz’s arrival means extra competition for places], but this is football. You’ve just got to get on with it. I’ve got to keep working hard and it’s healthy competition. I’ve got to keep fighting.”

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Smith Rowe's summer off to a fine start

Smith Rowe has scored two goals at the U21 Euros – where Lee Carsley’s Young Lions face Portugal in the quarter-finals on Sunday.

That’s after a frustrating season at club level for the 22-year-old, who was restricted to just 14 outings for the Gunners, having missed the majority of the first portion of the campaign – before the World Cup – through injury.

Arsenal’s number 10 will no doubt be determined to kick on next season – which includes a return to the Champions League – and add to his 96 appearances so far for his boyhood club.