Ainsley Maitland-Niles has taken to Instagram to confirm he is returning to Arsenal this summer from Italian side Roma – but he could still depart. The midfielder is reportedly on the transfer list, with the Gunners ready to sell.
Despite a lack of options in the middle of the park, Arsenal sanctioned the loan exit of Maitland-Niles in January. It came after less than 300 minutes of Premier League football during the first half of the season at the Emirates.
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Despite Premier League interest, the five-time England international chose to move to Italy to join Jose Mourinho’s Roma. He started nine of just 12 games, remaining an unused substitute on 15 occasions under Mourinho.
Roma, perhaps unsurprisingly, have not chosen to sign him permanently. He has taken to Instagram to thank Roma for his time at the club, where he was part of the squad that won the Europa Conference League trophy.
Maitland-Niles confirms Arsenal return: Big summer ahead
The versatile ace has a contract at Arsenal until the summer of 2023. It means the Gunners will have to cash in in the next window. That, or face losing Maitland-Niles on a free transfer in 12 months time.
Reports claim that Arsenal are willing to sell the midfielder for just £8million this summer. A potential bargain, given he is young, English and able to play in a number of positions. Clubs are likely to be interested.
Where is his best move? Abroad or a lower Premier League club? Well, if he is aspirations of adding to his five England caps, he would be better off remaining on these shores. Time will tell.
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