Arsenal ‘open to selling Nketiah and Maitland-Niles’ as price tags set

Arsenal will reportedly look to sell both Eddie Nketiah and Ainsley Maitland-Niles this summer to raise transfer funds for new arrivals.

The academy graduates have struggled to force their way into first-team reckoning under Mikel Arteta and are each at a crossroads in their respective careers.

Maitland-Niles has been playing regularly out on loan at West Brom in his preferred central midfield position but Arteta has never been convinced by his capability to fill that role at Arsenal.

At 23, the versatile England international really needs to nail down a definitive position, or at least get a consistent run in the side, something he is unlikely to get either of under Arteta.

With West Brom looking certain to be relegated, a number of clubs are now keen on signing Maitland-Niles this summer, with The Sun reporting Arsenal are demanding £20million for his sale.

Both Leicester and Southampton were interested back in January, but neither could offer the player assurances he would be utilised in midfielder, hence Maitland-Niles' decision to move to the Hawthorns.

Nketiah is another player who appears surplus to requirements at the Emirates.

The 21-year-old has made 27 appearances in all competitions for Arsenal this season, though has started just four Premier League matches.

His situation at Arsenal could hinge on the future of Alexandre Lacazette, 30, who may be sold this summer if the club opt not to renew his contract, which expires in 2022.

Arsenal's work in tying down youngster Folarin Balogun to a new long-term deal has raised further question marks over Nketiah's place in Arteta's plans though, with chances already limited.

West Ham have been linked with a move for Nketiah as David Moyes looks to bolster his attacking options this summer, with Arsenal believed to also be demanding £20m for a permanent transfer.

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