This past season saw the 23-year-old notch just 161 minutes of league action across 12 outings.
However, following the end of the Premier League campaign, ESR linked up with England’s under-21s and won the European Championship during the summer break.
Smith Rowe has since returned to Arsenal and shone on their pre-season tour of the USA.
Big things were expected of the midfielder this season but so far they are yet to play out.
Despite the loss of Gabriel Jesus for the opening three games, Smith Rowe is yet to make an appearance in 2023/24, sitting on the bench for all three of the Gunners’ Premier League outings so far.
This has led to more speculation over his future, with Chelsea seemingly eager to get a late deal over the line before Friday’s deadline.
Given the Blues’ lack of wide attacking options at present, ESR would likely see more minutes in west London but Chelsea are now expected to look at alternative attacking options to add to Mauricio Pochettino’s squad.
Chelsea vs Wimbledon betting tips: Carabao Cup preview, predictions, team news and odds
