According to Fabrizio Romano, AS Roma are in talks to sign Arsenal midfielder Ainsley Maitland-Niles on loan, with the versatile midfielder open to accept. As of right now, the main obstruction to the move going ahead is a lack of an agreement between both clubs. Roma are keen to take the Arsenal man on loan, with an option to buy. From their perspective, the deal would make perfect sense given the pending departure of fullback Riccardo Calafiori.
AS Roma in Talks to Sign Ainsley Maitland-Niles on Loan
Maitland-Niles to Follow in the Footsteps of Other English Talents?
It’s become somewhat of a trend in the last couple of years of so for young English players to seek game time in the Serie A. Fikayo Tomori did it to much success, and is now a crucial player for AC Milan. Tammy Abraham then made the same decision – opting to join Roma on loan, where he has, like Tomori, since found success.
The evidence is there for Maitland-Niles to see regarding just how successful and beneficial a move abroad can be. Still without consistent game time at Arsenal, the Hale End graduate will certainly have a decision to make come January.
Considering the form of those often selected by Mikel Arteta at Arsenal, Maitland-Niles is likely to find himself frozen out entirely once more soon enough, especially as the Gunners continue their top four charge. His versatility will leave Jose Mourinho a big fan of his, and potentially leave the door open for an eventual permanent move.
Although still in the early stages, it would come as little surprise if we saw Ainsley Maitland-Niles wearing the famous colours of Roma come January. He has a chance to revive his career. And he will be keen to take that chance away from the depths he has found himself stuck in at Arsenal.
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