Arsenal midfielder confirms free transfer departure

Arsenal midfielder Ainsley Maitland-Niles has confirmed that he will be leaving on a free transfer this summer.

The England international was loaned out to Southampton last summer and he has been a bit-part player for them.

Speaking to The Athletic, the Gunners graduate has now confirmed that he will be available as a free agent soon.

He said: "It’s been a great journey but it has come to an end now (at Arsenal)."

Maitland-Niles' deal with the Gunners expires on June 30 but the north London club have the option to extend for 12 months.

However, it appears they have decided against triggering the clause, thereby prompting the player to confirm his summer exit.

Maitland-Niles was on the radar of several Premier League clubs two years ago and Arsenal could have sold him for £25m.

Their decision to keep him has proved to be costly. They are now expected to release him and will miss out on a transfer fee.