According to Daily Mail, Ainsley Maitland-Niles has emerged as a target for Brighton & Hove Albion. The Arsenal star is reportedly looking for regular football after struggling with a lack of game-time at the Emirates. Although Mikel Arteta is believed to be an admirer of the defender, Brighton are convinced they could snap him up this summer.
Can Maitland-Niles Thrive At Brighton?
Brighton & Hove Albion have shown a lot of ambition in the transfer market this summer. They have already signed Adam Lallana and Joel Veltman. Maitland-Niles, in that regard, could be the next jigsaw in the puzzle.
Although the Seagulls do have a bunch of options at right-back, the likes of Martin Montoya and Ezequiel Montoya have been on and off, leaving new signing Tariq Lamptey as the only reliable option for Graham Smith. However, the youngster, despite his excellent performances, lacks experience. And that is where Maitland-Niles comes into the fray.
The Arsenal star is a much more robust and experienced alternative to Lamptey at right-back, and given the fact that the Arsenal star can also play in a more attacking role, he could provide Potter with some much-needed depth in the side. Hence, Maitland-Niles shouldn’t find any difficulties settling in at the Amex next season.
Should Arsenal Keep Hold Of Him?
While a move to Brighton is undoubtedly an exciting prospect for Maitland-Niles as he looks to propel his career further, prolonging his stay at Arsenal isn’t necessarily a bad idea either.
Arteta has seemingly appeared to have grown trust in the 22-year-old. His solidity at the back, combined with his athleticism and a positive attitude have impressed the Arsenal manager.
Even from a tactical perspective, Maitland-Niles may have future at Emirates, sheerly due to his versatility. He can compete with declining individuals like Hector Bellerin and Cedric at right-back. Additionally, the Englishman can operate on the opposite flank, where he can provide an incentive for the likes of Kieran Tierney and Sead Kolasinac to fight for their respective places in the final third.
It is, however, fair to point out that Maitland-Niles is unlikely to be considered as an out and out first-choice options in any of his preferred positions due to so much quality in the team. Hence, a move to Brighton & Hove Albion could indeed be a better option for the Arsenal star this summer.
