Emile Smith Rowe signs fresh Arsenal deal and gets new shirt number

Emile Smith Rowe has signed a new long-term contract with Arsenal following transfer interest from Aston Villa.

The youngster has also taken on ownership of Mesut Ozil's old No.10 shirt at the club.

After loan spells at RB Leipzig and Huddersfield Town, the 20-year-old enjoyed a breakthrough season in Mikel Arteta's side last term, playing 33 matches in all competitions and scoring four goals.

Ambitious Villa came calling for him this summer and had two bids for him rejected by the Gunners, who have now tied down the academy product to a long-term deal.

Speaking on the new deal, Arteta said: "As we all saw last season, Emile is an intelligent player with excellent ability.

"His sharpness on the turn and exceptional vision have already made him a key player for us. His attitude and willingness to learn have also been very impressive.

"I know the fans will join us in being delighted that Emile has committed his future to the club. We're now looking forward to helping him develop further and seeing him become even more important to the strong young team we're building."

Gunners technical director Edu added: “This is another important step forward for us and we’re all delighted that Emile has signed a new long-term contract.

"It’s great to see another young player develop through our academy system to become a key part of our first team.

"Emile is a player who represents the future of the club and this is why we have given him the No 10 shirt.

"We have trust in Emile and we know he has the potential to be a beautiful player for many years to come.”

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