Mikel Arteta has hinted that Arsenal youngster Emile Smith Rowe may be on the verge of leaving the club. The attacking midfielder has been linked with a move away from the Emirates Stadium all summer, and it appears that his future at the club is no longer certain.

In an interview with reporters ahead of Arsenal’s Premier League opener against Leicester City, Arteta was asked about Smith Rowe’s situation. While he stopped short of confirming that the 22-year-old would be leaving, he did suggest that ‘things are happening in the background’ and hinted that a resolution to the saga could come soon.

“There are things happening in the background, and we’ll see what happens,” Arteta said. “I’m not going to speculate on anything, but there are things being worked on.”

Smith Rowe has been a key player for Arsenal over the past 18 months, making 64 appearances and scoring 10 goals. However, his future at the club is now in doubt due to interest from several Premier League clubs.

The talented midfielder has been linked with moves to Manchester United, Chelsea, and Tottenham Hotspur, among others. With Arsenal’s squad depth and competition for places in midfield, it appears that Smith Rowe may be forced to seek a new challenge elsewhere.

Arsenal fans will be keenly following developments on this story as the transfer window enters its final week. Will Smith Rowe remain at the Emirates Stadium or will he depart for pastures new?