Unai Emery 'blocks Emile Smith Rowe loan exit'

Arsenal manager Unai Emery has reportedly blocked plans to send youngster Emile Smith Rowe out on loan this season.

The 18-year-old is understood to have caught Emery's eye since being promoted to the first-team squad this summer, and played a notable role in pre-season, scoring against Atletico Madrid.

Smith Rowe has since signed a new long-term contract at the Emirates Stadium, and was understood to have been considered for a loan spell in order to aid his development.

However, the Daily Mail reports that Emery personally intervened to veto any exit for the attacking midfielder as he wants the option to include him in his first-team plans this season.

Smith Rowe has not been involved in any of Arsenal's three Premier League games so far this term, but could see game time in the cup competitions and the Europa League.

A number of other youngsters are expected to leave the Gunners before tonight's transfer deadline, but Smith Rowe is now likely to stay for the duration of the 2018-19 campaign.