Ainsley Maitland-Niles is set to leave Arsenal for free this summer, according to The Athletic.
Maitland-Niles, who is currently on loan with Southampton until the end of the current campaign, will leave Mikel Arteta's side permanently this summer after the north London outfit opted not to trigger an option in his contract for a further year. The Hale End academy graduate joined the Gunners' academy setup 19 years ago, when he was just six-years-old, but he has now confirmed that he is ready for a fresh start.
“It’s been a great journey but it has come to an end now (at Arsenal)", the versatile defender told The Athletic. "It’s time for a fresh start and to find a new home.
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"I’m looking forward to that but, at the same time, my head’s not quite there yet and it’s all about what’s happening now with Southampton. I’m just fully focused on trying to help us stay up and stay positive on a day-to-day basis and win games.
"When the time gets closer towards the end of the season, I’ll have something else to think about. But right now, I’m just focused on football and the task at hand.
“Southampton is a great club to be at and progress and get some minutes under my belt. Of course, if they were to make an offer, I’ll be more than happy to stay."
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