Everton eyeing up loan move for Arsenal outcast Maitland-Niles

Jason Soutar
Ainsley Maitland-Niles

Everton will make a move for Arsenal star Ainsley Maitland-Niles before the transfer deadline, according to reports.

It is likely that Maitland-Niles’ will depart the Gunners in a loan deal, as opposed to leaving the club permanently.

And the Toffees are favourites to sign the versatile midfielder as they are exploring a move for the player, according to Sky Sports.


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Interest in the 23-year-old is thought to be high after a loan spell at West Bromwich Albion last season.

Maitland-Niles emerged as first choice right-back at the Gunners under Mikel Arteta, but faded out of the Spaniard’s plans before his move to the Baggies.

The Englishman has often expressed his desire to play in midfield, which seems unlikely with Arsenal in the Premier League.

This is what raises a question mark over his rumoured move to Everton.

The Toffees already have Ben Davies, Allan, Fabian Delph, Jean-Philippe Gbamin, Abdoulaye Doucoure and Andre Gomes as central midfield options, so it would also be unexpected for AMN to feature in this position for the club.

They do, however, require some cover in wide areas, particularly right-back. Maitland-Niles’ ability to play on both sides of defence and midfield is desirable, but it remains to be seen if he will move to a team that will play him there.

If the player was happy with a right-back role, it is likely he would be starting for Arsenal, or at least playing some minutes in that position.

In June, the player told The Telegraph he wants to be given “clarity” regarding his future:

“If I was to get a phone call from someone at Arsenal and they said they’d like a meeting tomorrow, then it would be easier that way,” he said.

“They can tell me whether they’ve got plans to play me in the future or if they want to sell me.

“I want a decision. I want some clarity. And then hopefully I can get to work with whoever I need to get to work with.

“Whether that is finding a new club or whether that is carrying on with my training. I would like some kind of indication of what is happening. Where they [Arsenal] see me.

“If it works out, it works out, if it doesn’t then kiss Arsenal goodbye. It’s been a long journey but a proud one at that.”