SAINTS are reportedly “closing in” on the signature of Ainsley Maitland-Niles on a loan deal with a buy option from Arsenal.
Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has reported the St Mary’s side are in ongoing talks with the Gunners over the versatile midfielder, who helped Roma to the Europa Conference League title while on loan last season.
Maitland-Niles, 25, who can also operate at full-back, has previously spent time on loan at Ipswich and West Bromwich Albion – as well as playing five times for England.
Bournemouth and Newcastle have also been linked with Maitland-Niles during this transfer window, but Saints are reportedly leading the race for his signature.
Boss Ralph Hasenhuttl has hinted Saints were still active in the transfer market, as the clock ticks down to Thursday’s transfer deadline (11pm).
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