David Ornstein rules Newcastle out of Emile Smith Rowe chase with West Ham interested
David Ornstein has ruled Newcastle out of the transfer race for Arsenal ace Emile Smith Rowe in what could be a boost to West Ham in their chances of landing the 23-year-old.
The Athletic journalist shared that he is not aware of the North-East club pursuing Smith Rowe, although he would not be surprised if there was admiration for the Arsenal ace from Newcastle and elsewhere.
A report from The Northern Echo, and another from The Sun both on 12 October, named West Ham as another club interested in signing Smith Rowe, with Ornstein’s update a possible aid to the Hammers’ chances.
Writing in response to a question during The Athletic’s Q&A session on 12 October, Ornstein shared: “I wouldn’t be surprised if there is admiration for Smith Rowe at Newcastle and elsewhere.
“I saw the reports this morning and completely respect the work of fellow journalists – but personally speaking I’m not aware of Newcastle pursuing him.
“His situation, though, is definitely one to watch.”
One to watch
Ornstein labelling Smith Rowe’s situation as one to watch could also be a bonus for the Hammers, as they are now seemingly the only club reportedly in the running for the 23-year-old, although there are likely to be admirers from elsewhere given the level of his talent.
West Ham’s impressive season so far and recent trophy-winning success, as well as their place in European competition and the short move across London from North to East, could prove an attractive prospect if a move is on the cards.
There have, however, been reports recently [Claret & Hugh] that the Hammers have no money to spend in January given their frivolous spending spree in the summer transfer window in their efforts to replace Declan Rice, which of course would rule them out of the running.
If West Ham are interested in Smith Rowe, though, this update will have provided them with a boost of confidence in their pursuit.
In other West Ham news, a journalist has urged one Hammer star to seize his latest opportunity.