RB Leipzig looking to extend Arsenal youngster Smith-Rowe’s loan beyond this season – before he’s even played a game
The Gunners prospect headed to Germany in search of first-team football but has seen his debut delayed by a groin injury
RB LEIPZIG are looking to extend Arsenal youngster Emile Smith-Rowe's loan beyond this season despite the midfielder not yet making his debut.
The midfielder, 18, became the latest youngster to head to Germany in search of first-team football when he joined the Bundesliga side on a five-month loan deal at the end of January.
However, Smith Rowe has not been able to make his debut with his new club yet after suffering an injury during training at Arsenal in December.
Should the talented England prospect make an impression in the Bundesliga, Leipzig will push to extend the midfielder's loan into the 2019/20 campaign.
Manager Ralph Rangnick said: “We have such a good relationship with Arsenal that we can imagine talking to them about another loan in March or April."
Smith Rowe would reportedly be open to continuing his stay in Germany but the move will depend on Arsenal, who included no option to buy in the original loan.
The Gunners star has been at the club since he was ten and signed a new long-term contract earlier this season after bursting on to the scene in pre-season.
Smith Rowe has played six times for Arsenal in all competitions this season, but with Arsenal out of both domestic cups, playing time would have been limited.
He was then given manager Unai Emery's blessing to temporarily leave for first-team action, however club chiefs ensured there would be no option to buy.
The 18-year-old reassured Arsenal fans of his commitment to the club when he was seen streaming the match against Manchester City as he queued at the airport.