Ainsley Maitland-Niles is getting closer to a move to Serie A. Roma have agreed to personal terms with the midfielder, which will give them leverage in the talks with Arsenal. The two sides are discussing the formula and the fees of the deal, Sky Sport reports.
The 24-year-old had to approve the wages for the next six months, and in case the Giallorossi bought him out. He will earn around €2M in the Italian Capital, Il Tempo reports. Despite the development, the negotiation between Roma and Arsenal has some hurdles to clear.
The Gunners would rather include an obligation to buy, while the Italian team prefers a simple option. CEO Tiago Pinto offered €750k right away and potentially €10M in June. The counterpart asked for more in both instances. Maitland-Niles already left on loan earlier in the year, as he spent the second half of last season at West Brom.
Roma will likely need to up their bid to convince Arsenal to let him go. The Englishman has featured in 12 matches so far, including 8 Premier League ones. José Mourinho is eager to sign him to have a proper backup for Rick Karsdorp on the right flank. But the prospective newcomer would come in handy in other roles as well.
The Giallorossi would fill their remaining spot for an extra-EU player this season should they acquire Maitland-Niles. After dealing with COVID, he returned to practice yesterday. Roma would like to acquire him before the season resumes on January 6th.