Transfer Talk: Out of favour Smith Rowe on Hammers' radar

Emile Smith Rowe has been unable to establish himself at Arsenal under Mikel Arteta.

The attacking midfielder has started just three games in all competitions this season.

That lack of game time has resulted in rumours of a move this summer, with West Ham reportedly interested.

We take a look at what Smith Rowe could bring to David Moyes' side, ahead of this afternoon's clash with Aston Villa.

Out of favour

Arteta dismissed suggestions that Smith Rowe could leave the club in January.

He said: "I'm really happy with Emile. He's on the right trajectory.

"Now, he's settled, he's training really well and you know I'm not going to talk about individual situations.

"Emile is Emile. We know he's got incredible qualities and we're really happy to have him.

"What he needs now is chances to put all the desire and quality that he has on the pitch. In order to do that we have to give him minutes."

Minutes have been lacking for the 23-year-old, though.

He has managed just 229 in the Premier League this season, starting twice and making eight appearances as a substitute.

Smith Rowe has shown glimpses of his quality during those cameos — registering an assist during a 5-0 win over Sheffield United in October — but he has been unable to displace Arteta's preferred options.

Wanted man

Other Premier League clubs will have taken notice of Smith Rowe's peripheral role at Arsenal.

This is a player who only two seasons ago scored 10 Premier League goals and looked set for a major role in Arteta's team, as well as a potential future as an England regular.

That has not happened — but there is still no doubt about his quality.

Even this season, Smith Rowe has impacted games when given the chance.

The Gunners' No10 has averaged an impressive 2.36 shots on target per 90 minutes in the Premier League.

And with 23.19 completed passes into the final third per 90, he is capable of both creating and scoring.

It is no surprise that a West Ham side who have occasionally been accused of lacking flair are keeping an eye on Smith Rowe.

Alongside the likes of Lucas Paqueta and Jarrod Bowen, the England international could thrive at the London Stadium.

Hammers interest

Given the importance of every remaining game in the Premier League title race, Arteta is unlikely to be charitable with his team selections.

That could mean a move elsewhere is necessary for Smith Rowe as he looks to ensure his career does not stagnate.

West Ham, chasing European football again this season, could well be the ideal transfer for a player who has already proved his capabilities at the top level.

The Londoner has been at Arsenal since the age of 10 and leaving would certainly be difficult.

But a departure could prove to be the best move for all parties in the summer, with West Ham offering an attractive alternative for a player with plenty still to offer.