'It's so transparent': fan offers theory explaining Villa's Smith Rowe bid

Aston Villa's persistence in trying to land Emile Smith Rowe has surprised Arsenal fans.

The Gunners had informed them that ESR is not for sale but Villa still came back with a second, improved bid—Arsenal obviously rejected it.

But why on Earth did they launch that second bid? As per an Arsenal fan on Twitter nicknamed Gunnerpunner, it's quite simple.

Villa want to establish themselves as one of England's biggest clubs and are flexing their (financial) muscles.

At the same time, ESR's agents are trying to get their client the best possible renewal offer from Arsenal as his contract expires in two years.