Smith Rowe was the only senior squad player not to feature in Arsenal's pre-season game against Bournemouth, which the Gunners won 5-4 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in 90 minutes.

Fulham are keen on 23-year-old Smith Rowe, who remained on the bench throughout.

"Things are happening in the background and we decided the best thing to do was leave him out," said Arteta.