Fulham FC has confirmed the signing of Emile Smith Rowe from Arsenal for an undisclosed fee.
The England international has penned a five-year contract, keeping him at Craven Cottage until the summer of 2029, with a Club option to extend by a further 12 months.
A versatile attacking player, he primarily operated off the left wing or as a number 10 for the Gunners but is also comfortable on the right, or in a slightly deeper midfield role.
A Friday statement on the club’s website disclosed this.
Speaking to FFCtv after putting pen to paper, Smith Rowe said, “I’m finally here, so I’m really happy for me and my family – it’s a good moment.
“I’m really excited, I just wanted to get here as quickly as possible so I could get going with my teammates.
“Listening to the project, speaking to the Manager, and seeing what players we have here already, I think it’s an exciting project for me, and definitely the perfect step for my career going forward.”
Tony Khan added, “I’m thrilled to announce the arrival of Emile Smith Rowe to Fulham Football Club!
“We’re very excited to sign such a talented young player, and we look forward to Emile joining the squad in Portugal as we continue to prepare for the new season ahead! Come on Fulham!”
A lifelong Londoner, Smith Rowe – who turned 24 last Sunday – was born just 10 miles away from the Cottage, in Croydon, joining the Arsenal academy a decade later, the statement noted.
Arsenal bade ESR farewell
Meanwhile, his parent club, Arsenal, in a separate statement from the club’s website on Friday also confirmed Smith Rowe’s exit from the club to join London rival, Fulham FC.
This was disclosed in a statement titled, “Emile Smith Rowe has joined Fulham on a permanent transfer.”
“Emile joined our Academy aged ten and progressed through each age group before making his way into the first-team squad. He went on to make 115 senior appearances for us in all competitions, scoring 18 goals and assisting 13 times,” it read partly.
Arsenal Sporting Director reacts
Sporting Director Edu said, “Emile is loved by us all at the club. He has been with us for many years, and we are so proud that he has developed through our Academy system into our first team.
“It has been a positive collaboration to find the right place for Emile, where he will continue to grow and make his mark on the Premier League. We have completed an important and positive deal for everyone.
“We thank Emile for everything he gave to Arsenal and we wish him well in the next stage of his career.”
Arsenal coach, Mikel Arteta added, “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.
“I’m sad that Emile is leaving us, but 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 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.”
Everyone at Arsenal thanks Emile for his contribution to the club and wishes him all the best for his future.
The transfer is subject to the completion of regulatory processes, the Arsenal statement concluded.
Smith Rowe debut
PUNCH Online reports that Smith Rowe debuted in 2018/19, scoring three times in six appearances before a loan to RB Leipzig.
He made his Premier League debut that December and later scored key goals for Huddersfield Town on loan.
In 2020/21, he became a crucial player for Arsenal, playing 33 times and earning the number 10 shirt.
He gained international recognition with England and helped win the 2023 Under-21 European Championship.
His final Arsenal season included 19 appearances as they narrowly lost the Premier League title to Manchester City.