Mikel Arteta updates on Emile Smith Rowe's future at Arsenal

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Emile Smith-Rowe will be staying with the club amid the reported interest from Aston Villa.

The 20-year-old has recently been the subject of interest from the Villans. They have made a couple of bids that have been rejected.

The Midlands outfit are planning an improved offer of around £32m, but Arteta has made it clear that Smith Rowe is going nowhere.

He told Arsenal.com: "Without a question. Yes. He will stay here, 100 percent."

Smith Rowe had a wonderful breakout season last term, registering seven goals and seven assists from 37 appearances in all competitions.

He has two years remaining on his contract. It has been reported that the club have a verbal agreement to extend his stay until 2026.

Talks are at an advanced stage and it is only a matter of time before his deal is extended. He could be handed a new shirt number.

Smith Rowe scored in a pre-season friendly against Hibernian on Tuesday. It was only a consolation as the Gunners lost 2-1.