New Arsenal chief Richard Garlick has two major tasks when he takes up the job.

Garlick will take over as director of football operations on May 17 having been working for the Premier League in the same role.

ESPN says two of his first jobs will be to sort out contract issues.

The first will be getting Smith Rowe to put pen to paper on a fresh deal.

His current one runs until 2023 but after a breakthrough season this term, the 20-year-old is due to earn a pay rise.

The 'Croydon De Bruyne' is on £20,000 per week at the moment but is expected to see that double.

Smith Rowe has racked up 29 first-team appearances this term with seven assists.

For Lacazette, Garlick must decide whether or not to offer a new deal.

The Frenchman, 29, is out of contract at the end of the 2021-22 season.

Arsenal are desperate not to lose more players on free transfers.