Newcastle United reportedly want to sign Ainsley Maitland-Niles in the summer transfer window.
The Lowdown: Midfielders wanted
The St. James’ Park faithful have recently been linked with a number of midfield players, including the likes of Mario Lemina, Ross Barkley and James McCarthy.
Of course, they could also come back in for Joe Willock as well, after his impressive loan spell in the North East in the 2020/21 season.
The Latest: Maitland-Niles eyed
As per The Daily Mail, the Tyneside club want to sign Maitland-Niles, along with both Southampton and Burnley.
Given that he was sent out on loan to West Brom in the last campaign, the Englishman may not be part of Mikel Arteta’s long-term plans at the Emirates Stadium, and as such, he could well be sold in order to help raise some funds for the Spaniard to make some new additions at Arsenal.
The Verdict: Sign
Maitland-Niles certainly impressed while on loan at the Hawthorns, even being dubbed as ‘phenomenal’ by pundit Paul Robinson back in February for his performance against Burnley.
Last season, he won no fewer than 3.1 of his duels per game in the Premier League, as well as averaging 1.3 tackles, 1.2 interceptions and one clearance per match (Sofascore).
Maitland-Niles’ added ability to play in a wide number of different positions should give Steve Bruce even more of an incentive to sign him, and at just 23 years of age, he still has a lot of potential. It’s a deal the Magpies should definitely push to get completed.
In other news, find out what update a local journalist has given on NUFC’s transfer activity here!
