Newcastle United and Aston Villa 'leading race' for £35m-rated star loved by Mikel Arteta

Newcastle United have been linked with a summer move for Arsenal star Emile Smith Rowe - but will reportedly face competition from Premier League rivals Aston Villa.

The three-times capped England international is said to have been on the Magpies radar over the last 12 months as they look to add more creativity to their midfield ranks. Smith-Rowe has struggled to find his way into the Arsenal side on a regular basis so far this season as Mikel Arteta's side challenge for silverware on a number of fronts.

A late appearance as a substitute in the Gunners' 5-0 demolition of relegation threatened Burnley on Saturday afternoon means Smith Rowe has made just three starts in all competitions, with just two coming in the Premier League. Despite struggling to make an impact, the 23-year-old was praised by Arteta after he helped his side to a big win against Nottingham Forest last month.

Speaking to the Arsenal website, he said of Smith Rowe: “That he went for it, that he was free, he was flowing, he was moving, he was participating, his body language was good - he’s just a beautiful footballer to watch. I’m really pleased because he was really connected with the team and I thought he played the game in a really good way.”

Despite Arteta's praise, speculation over Smith Rowe's long-term future at the Emirates Stadium has failed to subside and Football Insider have now claimed Newcastle and Aston Villa are 'leading the race' to sign the attacking midfielder during the summer transfer window. The report suggests both the Magpies and their Premier League rivals will approach the Gunners over a possible deal if there an indication Smith Rowe will be made available at the end of the season. Arsenal are said to be 'weighing up a possible sale' of their academy product and revealed Smith Rowe has 'a huge decision' to make over his future when the campaign comes to a close.