Boost for Maitland-Niles as two clubs battle to sign Arsenal team-mate

LONDON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 03: (L) Emile Smith Rowe celebrates scoring the 4th Arsenal goal with (R) Ainsley Maitland-Niles during the UEFA Europa League Group B stage match between Arsenal FC and Rapid Wien at Emirates Stadium on December 03, 2020 in London, England. Sporting stadiums around the UK remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

Mohamed Elneny is the subject of interest from both Galatasaray and Besiktas at present, which could well open the door for Ainsley Maitland-Niles to get his chance in Arsenal’s midfield.

The 24 year-old has been crying out for a role as a central midfielder, with manager Mikel Arteta preferring to use him at full-back or wing-back predominantly in previous seasons, but with Elneny looking likely to depart, he could finally get his chance.

The Egyptian midfielder is currently being linked with moves to both Turkish Super Lig sides Besiktas and Galatasaray, with their transfer window remaining open until later than the Premier League’s, which closed on last Tuesday.

CaughtOffside cites Turkish outlet Milliyet that the deal isn’t close however, with an issue over wage demands currently blocking the deal, but their window remains open until September 8 so there is no rush at present to get this over the line.

You would have to imagine that AMN would be first in line to get his chance, having been denied a move away this summer.

Should Arsenal be allowing Elneny to leave considering our backup options?

Patrick