Maitland-Niles wants out

Arsenal midfielder Ainsley Maitland-Niles has been vocal about his future in recent weeks.

The Englishman, in an exclusive interview with The Telegraph this summer, spoke about his readiness to leave north London in order to find first-team football, saying:

“If it works out, it works out, if it doesn’t then kiss Arsenal goodbye. It’s been a long journey but a proud one at that. Maybe they still want to do something & things could change. If not, there’s always other teams

However, he demanded an answer from the Arsenal hierarchy, stating:

“I want a decision. I want some clarity.”

Maitland-Niles, now 23 years old, made his name at Arsenal playing at right-back but impressed on loan at West Brom in the second half of last season, where he partnered fellow loanee Connor Gallagher in the centre of midfield.

However, his time in north London could be over, with Arsenal having already signed Albert Sambi Lokonga and rumoured to be looking at another midfielder this summer.

Three clubs chase Englishman’s signature

According to BBC Sport’s Simon Stone, three clubs are all interested in signing the wantaway Arsenal man, which could spark a bidding war for his services.

Leicester City, Southampton and Burnley are all allegedly interested in signing the Englishman, whose versatility undoubtedly brings him plenty of suitors.

As reported previously by the Daily Mail, Arsenal may be set to offer Maitland-Niles to Leicester in a player plus cash deal for creative midfielder James Maddison, although these remain just rumours at present.

Whether in a swap deal or for a transfer fee, it seems that Maitland-Niles may be heading out of The Emirates Stadium this summer.