The Mirror has explained the reason why Ainsley Maitland-Niles is desperate to leave Arsenal before tomorrow’s transfer deadline.
The report claims that the talented utility man wants to move in order to secure himself a regular place in the England squad under Gareth Southgate, having earned himself a place in the squad in recent months.
Maitland-Niles has interest from Leicester City, who would want a permanent option for the summer, Southampton, West Brom, and Newcastle United.
The move to Southampton would likely be as a full-back, meaning Maitland-Niles would likely reject the opportunity with a preference to play central midfield.
Maitland-Niles is however said to be willing to remain professional. If a deal to leave Arsenal is not found then he will give his utmost for the club when given a chance by Mikel Arteta.
The 23-year-old received his first call-up to the England team last August after impressing in Arsenal’s end to the 2019-20 campaign. He has since made five appearances for his nation and has hopes of playing at the European Championships this summer.
However, he has struggled for regular football in recent weeks and clearly feels his chances of playing for England in the summer are being detrimentally impacted as a consequence.
That now seems to be the driving force behind the Arsenal man’s desire to leave the club before 11pm tomorrow.