Southampton pushing to sign Arsenal midfielder

Southampton are pushing to sign Arsenal midfielder Ainsley Maitland-Niles on loan with an option to buy next summer.

The England international became out-of-favour with the Gunners last season and was loaned out to Roma in January.

His spell with the Giallorossi was far from successful. He is now on the search for a new club, ideally in the Premier League.

A number of teams have expressed an interest in him, but Southampton are said to be pressing the most for his services.

Maitland-Niles' current deal with the Gunners expires in the summer of 2023, but the club have the option for 12 months.

With this in mind, the Saints are looking to sign him on loan with a buy option, and are optimistic of beating their rivals.

The Gunners graduate was once regarded as a key part of the club's long-term future, but has not progressed as anticipated.

His reluctance to play at right-back is one of the reasons. He will be hoping to establish himself in midfield as his next club.