Southampton still ‘feel quite confident’ that they will be able to sign Arsenal midfielder Ainsley Maitland-Niles this summer, according to journalist Dean Jones.

The 25-year-old is believed to be surplus to requirements at the Emirates Stadium, with several Premier League sides pushing to secure his signature before Thursday’s deadline.

What is the latest news involving Maitland-Niles?

Fabrizio Romano reported that ‘Southampton are pushing to sign’ Maitland-Niles with talks in progress over a season-long loan deal that includes an option-to-buy clause.

The five-cap England international’s current £52,000-per-week contract with Arsenal is set to expire next summer, but the capital club have the option to extend his stay until 2024.

Romano also stated that Southampton were eager to fend off competition from two other Premier League clubs for Maitland-Niles’ signature.

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And the Daily Mail provided an update on the versatile star’s situation, revealing that West Ham United and Bournemouth are the sides vying with the Saints for his services.

Maitland-Niles is said to be keen for a fresh start and to secure regular game time away from Arsenal after tumbling down manager Mikel Arteta’s pecking order. 

What has Jones said about Maitland-Niles?

It’s already been a busy summer for Southampton, who have welcomed six new players to St. Mary’s following an underwhelming 2021/22 campaign.

And Jones has informed GiveMeSport that the south coast club remain optimistic over their chances of adding Maitland-Niles to their ranks before the window slams shut.

He said: “Maitland-Niles, there's been a certain confidence that it would happen. The discussions have dragged a little bit, but they still feel quite confident they'll get it done.”

Would Maitland-Niles be a good signing?

Maitland-Niles has turned out at right-wing, left-wing, and at full-back on either flank alongside his preferred role in the centre of the park throughout his senior career.

That versatility could prove to be a valuable asset to Ralph Hasenhuttl should he make the switch to Southampton, although the Austrian tactician will face a rebuilding job.

Over the last couple of campaigns, Maitland-Niles has struggled to make an impact while on loan at both West Brom and AS Roma, failing to register a single goal contribution for either club.

Yet on his day, the Arsenal ace is capable of causing a threat with his dribbling ability and long-range shooting while also helping out defensively through his anticipation skills.

A loan move could be the best option for Southampton given Maitland-Niles’ recent woes, and he is surely a risk worth taking for Hasenhuttl.