Arsenal attacking midfielder Emile Smith Rowe won’t be used in a “swap deal” with West Ham’s Declan Rice, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

There had been some suggestions that Smith Rowe could be offered in order to match the Hammers’ valuation of Rice, but Romano has dismissed those claims:

“I’m aware of some reports of a swap deal…Emile Smith Rowe, however, is part of Arsenal’s plans for the future, they don’t want to let him go. Mikel Arteta is a big fan of the player, despite his fitness issues and lack of game time in the season just gone.”

As Romano mentions, Smith Rowe has had a very difficult year, having spent most of last season struggling with injury and fitness issues that meant he did not start a single game.

There have been rumours that the 22-year-old, who earns £40,000 a week at the Emirates, could leave London in order to get more game time but it appears he will be staying put this summer.

What’s the latest with Rice’s transfer?

At the time of writing, the Gunners have not tabled an offer for the West Ham captain, but it is believed that a formal approach will be made very soon.

Reports suggest that an initial bid of around £90m could be proposed, although it is still likely to fall short of the Irons’ asking price.

Will Arsenal have rivals for Rice’s signature?

Mikel Arteta’s side are very much frontrunners to snap up the England international but other teams will throw their hat into the ring.

Bayern Munich, Manchester United and Chelsea are also said to be keen on Rice, although the midfielder‘s preference is to make the switch to North London. That is likely to be Arsenal’s trump card when they sit down with West Ham and negotiate a deal.