Arsenal open contract talks with 20-year-old star

Arsenal have started negotiations with Emile Smith Rowe over a new long-term contract, The Athletic reports.

The Gunners graduate has been one of the club's stand-out performers since Boxing Day, and he is now an undisputed starter when fit.

He has two goals and seven assists to his name this season, and it is reported that the club are eager to commit him to a new long-term contract.

As per The Athletic, talks have begun between the 20-year-old and the hierarchy over a new deal, and an agreement is expected without any fuss.

The Gunners are already planning for the future, and they recently committed Folarin Balogun to a new contract until June 2025.

Smith Rowe has another two years remaining in his existing deal, but the club are keen to reward him for the progress made.

The north London giants will go on a major rebuild this summer, and they could offload as many as seven first-team stars.