Ainsley Maitland-Niles is a product of Arsenal's Hale End Academy (Getty Images)
According to Daily Express, Tottenham Hotspur are considering a surprise move to sign Ainsley Maitland-Niles from Arsenal this summer.
The 22-year-old has been put on sale by the Gunners despite helping new coach Mikel Arteta with his versatility throughout this season. A utility player, Maitland-Niles has made 20 appearances for the Gunners this season, mostly playing in a variety of roles.
A central-midfielder by trade, Maitland-Niles is comfortable playing in any role and has mostly featured as a right-back and at times on the left flank this season. However, he has never really established himself at the Emirates, mostly coming on and off the first-team following his debut as a 17-year-old six years ago.
Despite all that, he has still managed 100 appearances for Arsenal across all competitions, proving that he is nothing short of talent.
Meanwhile, Spurs under new boss Jose Mourinho has managed to shrug off their struggles early in the season and secure Europa League spot by finishing sixth this season. However, the Portuguese is well aware that he needs reinforcements in his side if they wish to climb the table next season and has identified Maitland-Niles as a suitable candidate.
However, it would not be an easy job for Mourinho to bring the young Englishman to Tottenham as he could cost him as much as £30million.
Also, the right-back remains a problem position for Mourinho, with youngster Kyle Walker-Peters joining Southampton. Walker-Peters’ departure means Tottenham will be just left with first-choice right-back Serge Aurier in the side and this could prove to be costly next season.
With the side clearly lacking depth at right-back and Aurier’s form remaining a major concern for Mourinho, interest in Maitland-Niles definitely seems like a welcome sign. His arrival will also offer Mourinho a lot of options, considering his proven versatility.
Hence, Tottenham’s interest in the young Englishman seems like a safe bet and they should continue with their efforts to land him ahead of next season.
Tottenham really need depth at right-back and Maitland-Niles would be a valuable addition to their squad if they succeed in landing him. Moreover, his versatility is an added benefit for any side, let alone Tottenham. He is just 22 and can develop further under the guidance of a coach like Mourinho.
