Arsenal ace Emile Smith Rowe targeted by Bundesliga giants for shock January loan with view to permanent summer transfer

GERMAN side RB Leipzig are tracking Arsenal’s Emile Smith Rowe, SunSport has learned.

The Bundesliga side - who are currently fourth in the German league - would love to take the attacking midfielder back on loan in January with a view to a permanent switch.

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But Gunners' boss Mikel Arteta is believed to be “undecided” on allowing the three-cap Englishman, 23, to leave.

Our source said: “Leipzig would love to take Emile on loan.

"He’s a player they’ve identified who they believe could help improve them and boost their chances of taking them to the Champions League.

“But Mikel Arteta is undecided. Emile is not part of his first team plans, but he still thinks the boy could have a part to play in their title charge.

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“As always a lot of this will come down to the player. If he tries to force a move then the club may have to make a decision because Arteta has always been clear - he only wants players who want to be at the club and fight for their place.”

Whatever happens this season, Smith Rowe faces a defining six months as he bids to resurrect his Arsenal career.

The midfielder has fallen out of favour under Arteta after battling injuries over the past 18 months, playing just 302 minutes in the Premier League since the start of last season.

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That has prompted interest from other clubs and last week West Ham enquired about borrowing the Londoner.

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Arsenal and Smith Rowe both knocked back the approach, with the player determined to force his way back into the team at his boyhood club. The Gunners took the same stance last summer.

Smith Rowe will have two years left on his contract in the summer.

Crystal Palace and Aston Villa have also been linked with the Londoner.

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