Arsenal midfielder Ainsley Maitland-Niles has confirmed that he will be leaving the club in the summer, with his sights set on a fresh start with another Premier League team. The 25-year-old has been on loan at Southampton this season in search of more game time, but has only made 22 appearances in all competitions for the struggling side.
Maitland-Niles, who joined Arsenal's youth academy at the age of six, made his first-team debut for the Gunners at just 17 years old in 2014. In total, he has played 132 times for the club, scoring three goals and registering eight assists. However, he now feels it is time for him to move on and find a new home.
The midfielder is open to staying with Southampton permanently, but a move is only likely to be explored if the team avoids relegation from the Premier League this season. Currently sitting at the bottom of the table and four points from safety, the team's future is uncertain.
Maitland-Niles is not the only Arsenal player whose future is up in the air. Folarin Balogun, currently on loan at Reims in Ligue 1, has been scoring goals and may be reluctant to be loaned out for a third time. Reiss Nelson is out of contract at the end of the season and has attracted interest from several clubs, while Emile Smith Rowe is being courted by Aston Villa.
The Athletic reports that Arsenal has decided against activating the option in Maitland-Niles' contract that would extend his stay for an additional 12 months.
The club is set to undergo significant changes this summer, with several players either leaving or having their futures in doubt. While fans may be sad to see some of their favorites go, the club will undoubtedly be looking to rebuild and strengthen its squad ahead of the new season.
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