Reece James has already given Chelsea Smith Rowe transfer verdict

Arsenal star Emile Smith Rowe has recently emerged as an exciting, wildcard target for Chelsea ahead of transfer deadline day on Friday

In November 2021, Smith Rowe received his first senior England call-up following a fantastic start to the season. The then-21-year-old had scored four goals and recorded two assists in the Gunners' first 11 games of the Premier League campaign.

"I’ve always known he’s a top player," said the Blues defender. "He came to Chelsea when he was quite young on trial. I remember playing with him and against him even when he went to Arsenal, so I always knew he was a top player and I think this season he’s shown how good he is and why he’s been selected."

Then, when asked how Smith Rowe performed in training at St George's Park, James added: "What he’s like in games, everyone can see how good he is and how well he’s been doing."

Even upon his return from the treatment room, Smith Rowe struggled to force himself into the Arsenal starting lineup despite his excellent versatility. In February last year, Mikel Arteta revealed that the Englishman can play up to four positions – yet he's played just three minutes of senior football in 2022/23.

"I think Smith Rowe can play in four positions," said the Gunners boss. "He can play as a left-winger, he can play as a left attacking midfielder, right attacking midfielder and he can play as a 9; very, very well I think."

On his best role, Smith Rowe has said: "I see myself as a No.10, on the inside, but at the same time, because of the way we play at Arsenal, if I am on the wing, then the manager is telling me to drift inside and be natural like a No.10 anyway."