Ainsley Maitland-Niles 'set for Arsenal talks next week'

Ainsley Maitland-Niles is reportedly expected to hold discussions regarding his Arsenal future next week.

Having failed to make an appearance for the Gunners since November 20, the versatile England international has emerged as an obvious target for other clubs.

If reports are to believed, Roma are the favourites to secure a deal for the 24-year-old, initially on loan until the end of the season.

According to The Mirror, however, no decision will be made on the situation until next week at the earliest.

The report suggests that club officials will wait until manager Mikel Arteta returns from his second bout of coronavirus before holding formal talks.

The academy graduate has just 18 months remaining on his contract at the Emirates Stadium, and there is no prospect of a renewal.