Report: Wolves and Newcastle in race for Arsenal midfielder

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Sky Sports have claimed that Wolverhampton Wanderers and Newcastle United are interested in signing Arsenal midfielder Ainsley Maitland-Niles, but reported interest from Tottenham Hotspur has been rubbished.

Maitland-Niles, who turns 23 at the end of the month, has been in and out of the Arsenal side over the past 12 months – clocking up 32 appearances in all competitions for the Gunners last term.

His 100th appearance came in the form of the FA Cup final, as he was used as a left wing-back. He has also played at right-back and in midfield of late, but despite that, the Daily Mail claim Arsenal will listen to offers of £20million.

The Mail claimed Tottenham were interested but sources have told Sky Sports that Spurs are not interested. However, Wolves and Newcastle are the latest clubs to register interest in the versatile England Under-21 ace.

TBR’s view – Maitland-Niles ideal for Wolves

His form as a left wing-back in a three-man Arsenal defence will have enticed Wolves. Nuno Espirito Santo has been applauded for his three-man defence, but will now be without Jonny for a considerable amount of time.

Wolves need a player that can cover Jonny and Maitland-Niles has shown he is more than capable. Newcastle also need a left-sided defender after Jetro Willems and Danny Rose’s loan spells came to and end.

Maitland-Niles would be ideal for both sides – if the England youth ace is happy to continue as a left-sided defender.