Why Leeds is the perfect club for Arsenal’s reportedly wantaway star – TBR View

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The Telegraph have reported that Arsenal star Ainsley Maitland-Niles is looking, and planning, to leave The Emirates on a permanent basis in the summer – and here is why Leeds United are his perfect next club.

The 23-year-old has clearly become fed up with his time on the fringes at Arsenal, having come through the academy to clock up 121 appearances at senior level. But he has never been considered first choice by The Gunners.

A fringe player at best, Maitland-Niles has rarely been given a chance in his favoured position of central midfield – instead being used as a left or right wing-back. It seems as though he has grown tired of being in and out of the side.

The report states that he is rated at £20million and will be the subject of interest from Leicester City, Wolves, and Southampton – but he would be absolutely perfect for Leeds in the coming months, for one exact reason.

Other than the fact he is an England international, and is available for a decent price given he is still only 23 – it is a preference of Leeds boss Marcelo Bielsa to have a small squad, and that is where Maitland-Niles benefits.

Having such a small squad sees Bielsa rely on the versatility of his stars. Stuart Dallas can play on either wing, either side of the defence or in central midfield. Kalvin Phillips can play in midfield or at centre-back.

Luke Ayling, Rodrigo, Gjanni Alioski and Tyler Roberts have all played in more than just one position this season. So, if Leeds are to sign players, it will be those that are not simply one position – and that is Maitland-Niles.

At £20million, still 23, English and with untapped potential – Maitland-Niles would thrive under the guidance and regime of Bielsa, and in turn, Maitland-Niles would give Bielsa a new and younger version of Stuart Dallas.