Ainsley Maitland-Niles Returns To Training As Exit Rumours Rumble On

Arsenal’s Ainsley Maitland-Niles has returned to training as rumours continue regarding his future…

Arsenal’s versatile midfielder Ainsley Maitland-Niles has returned to training after a bout of Covid-19 ahead of the clash against Manchester City as talks of a reported move to Roma rumble on.

The 24-year-old was ruled out of the squad that travelled to Norwich after testing positive for the virus, though his presence wasn’t missed due to his lack of minutes this season.

Following a public outcry to leave the club last summer, reports across Europe claim the England international could get his wish this January with Roma a likely destination.

According to Fabrizio Romano, talks continue regarding a move to the Italian capital though it remains to be seen if it’s a loan or a permanent transaction.

AS Roma are still in talks with Arsenal for Maitland-Niles. Discussion ongoing about loan fee and buy option. Player’s open to accept but it’s not fully agreed between clubs yet 🔴 #AFC #ASRoma

Meanwhile, Roma fullback Riccardo Calafiori leaves the club to join Cagliari on loan.

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 29, 2021

Football London’s Chris Wheatley claimed that there may well be an obligation to buy clause included in any loan deal which would invariably make it a permanent move.

Roma still trying to hammer out a deal with Arsenal for Ainsley Maitland-Niles.

Likely to include an obligation clause in the region of £12million which would be linked to the amount of appearances the 24-year-old makes 🇮🇹https://t.co/XWEd2BxTqf

— Chris Wheatley (@ChrisWheatley_) December 28, 2021

In the short term, Maitland-Niles’ return to training is welcome given that we’re suffering from somewhat of a crisis at right-back, a position the Hale End graduate has reluctantly excelled in.

Ben White was drafted in to play in that position at Carrow Road with Takehiro Tomiyasu, Cedric Soares and Calum Chambers all testing positive for Covid in recent weeks.

Also, we’ll have to also contend with the absence of manager Mikel Arteta for the visit of the champions after the Spaniard tested positive for Covid-19.