Arsenal midfielder Ainsley Maitland-Niles is closing in on a January exit, with AS Roma in 'advanced talks' over a loan deal. And the 24-year-old's departure could pave the way for two midfield prospects to stake a claim for a spot in Mikel Arteta's long-term plans.
Ainsley Maitland-Niles is set to leave Arsenal in January. (Image: GETTY)
And according to Fabrizio Romano, Roma are in advanced talks to sign Maitland-Niles on an initial six-month loan deal with the option to buy him for around £8.5million (€10m) next summer.
Jose Mourinho wants him in Italy, and the midfielder is ready to accept a move with negotiations between all parties ongoing.
All signs point towards a January exit, which could open the door for another Hale End Academy star to make the step up into the first team.
And two midfield starlets, in particular, could be eyeing more regular opportunities among Arteta's squad.
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The Netherlands under-17 international has started the U23s season in fine fashion after missing most of last term with an ankle injury.
He has registered four goals and two assists in 10 Premier League 2 starts in 2021/22 and was named on the bench as Arsenal beat Leeds United in the Carabao Cup Fourth Round.
Salah has already impressed against senior opposition this season in the Papa John's Trophy, particularly at Newport County, where he contributed a goal and an assist in a memorable 4-3 win.
And he could be the next to make his bow for the first team, especially if Maitland-Niles is out of the picture.