Arsenal: Ainsley Maitland-Niles West Brom Loan the End of the Road?

Arsenal have confirmed that Ainsley Maitland-Niles has left the club on loan this January transfer window to join West Brom on a six-month deal.

It appeared as though he would join Southampton only for his unwillingness to play at full-back scuppering the deal, one that could have become permanent after both parties discussed including an obligation to buy.

The 23-year-old has been with Arsenal since the age of six, signing his first professional deal in October 2014 and making his senior competitive bow for the club two months later in a Champions League victory over Galatasaray.

He’s since gone on to make 121 appearances for the club, but has fallen down the pecking order this season having been convinced to stay during the recent summer transfer window. He’s not been involved in any of the past four fixtures.

Ainsley Maitland-Niles leaves Arsenal to join West Brom on loan until the end of the season

With a host of clubs interested Ainsley Maitland-Niles‘ services this window, West Brom, who having been in and out of the running for his signature, have won the race.

"Mikel Arteta told the official Arsenal website: “Ainsley is a very talented player and we are proud of his hard work and development with us. This decision to go on loan to West Bromwich Albion for the rest of this season is to support Ainsley and his growth further. He will be working at a very good club in the Premier League and we all wish him the best of luck during his time at the Hawthorns.” Technical director Edu said: “We wish Ainsley the best of luck for his time with West Bromwich Albion. He deserves the opportunity to play consistently, which is what he needs for his club and international career ambitions and we fully support him with that.”"