Arsenal midfielder on his way to Roma?

Arsenal midfielder Ainsley Maitland-Niles is close to joining Roma, a report from Calciomercato claims.

The England international has struggled for regular game time this term, and he is eager to pursue a fresh challenge.

Roma tried to sign Granit Xhaka earlier this year, and it is now claimed that they are keen on landing Maitland-Niles.

The Giallorossi want to sign him on an initial loan deal with an option to buy for around £8.5 million next summer.

The Gunners are ready to sanction the deal despite the fact that they will be missing key players in midfield next month.

Thomas Partey and Mohamed Elneny may not play for them in January amid their African Cup of Nations commitments.

If Maitland-Niles leaves, the club would be left with Granit Xhaka and Albert Lokonga as the senior central midfielders.

Martin Odegaard and Emile Smith Rowe can slot in the position, but the Gunners may look for a new signing next month.

They have been heavily linked with Lille's Renato Sanches.