Fulham FC has made a significant move by signing Emile Smith Rowe from Arsenal for a club-record fee of £34 million ($43.7 million). The 24-year-old attacking midfielder has signed a five-year contract with Fulham, keeping him at Craven Cottage until the summer of 2029, with an option to extend for an additional year.
Smith Rowe, who made his Arsenal debut in 2018, expressed his excitement about the transfer: “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.”
During his time at Arsenal, Smith Rowe made 115 appearances, scoring 18 goals and providing 13 assists. In a heartfelt farewell message to Arsenal fans, he reflected on his journey with the club and his readiness for a new challenge: “I was ten years old when I first signed for this club, just a kid with no idea that I would go on to make over 100 appearances and wear the iconic No. 10 for Arsenal. I’m ready to take on a new challenge now, I feel hungrier than ever and I have to give myself the opportunity to take the next step. So thank you again to the Arsenal family, I’ll always appreciate you all.”
Fulham’s Sporting Director, Tony Khan, expressed his enthusiasm for the signing: “We’re very excited to sign such a talented young player, and we look forward to Emile joining the squad in Portugal as we prepare for the new season ahead! Come on Fulham!”
Arsenal’s Sporting Director, Edu, and Coach, Mikel Arteta, also praised Smith Rowe’s contributions and dedication to the club. Edu stated, “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. We thank Emile for everything he gave to Arsenal and we wish him well in the next stage of his career.”
Arteta added, “Emile’s commitment, attitude, and energy every day were first class, always stepping up when the team needed him. 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 leaves us with our gratitude, absolute respect, and best wishes.”
Fulham will kick off their Premier League season with a match against Manchester United at Old Trafford on August 16.
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