Smith Rowe and Lindelof in list of Premier League regulars in danger from new signings

Our criteria for ‘Premier League regulars’ is 20 Premier League starts last season, which rules out the likes of Roberto Firmino…

ARSENAL: Emile Smith Rowe

In November 2021 he made his England debut but by this summer he was back with the England Under-21s having dropped down the Arsenal pecking order towards the end of last season, starting only three of the Gunners’ last seven Premier League games. What he probably didn’t need to hear was that Arsenal had dropped over £30m on another attacking midfielder who can play on the left. Ouch.

ASTON VILLA: Ezri Konsa

Having already found himself on the bench more than once to make room for Calum Chambers, what are the chances that Konsa keeps his place after the rather expensive signing of Diego Carlos? “He’s a big part of this club and I don’t think anyone needs to read any stories about Ezri except that he’ll be here for pre-season, will reset and be ready to go,” said Steven Gerrard in May, but it’s almost impossible to see Konsa starting 29 Premier League games again next season. Even if they don’t sign Joe Gomez too.

BRENTFORD: Sergi Canos

Canos was really very useful for Thomas Frank last season but when push came to shove towards the end of the campaign and the Bees switched to a back four, the less defensively sound Spaniard was pushed out, with the centre-back Kristoffer Ajer moving into that position. All indications are that Brentford will strengthen on both flanks this summer and Canos is likely to become a bit-part man as they look to avoid the Second Season Syndrome that can strike those who stand still.

BRIGHTON: Neal Maupay

When you have started only two of your team’s last eight Premier League games and failed to score since February, the last thing you