Arsenal: 5 surprise transfer window moves ahead of deadline

2. Ainsley Maitland-Niles Stays

Even working on the basis that Elneny does stay this summer, Arsenal are taking a risk in heading into the 2021/22 campaign with Thomas Partey, Granit Xhaka, Sambi Lokonga and Elneny as the four senior central midfield options.

Given two of those will be off to AFCON in January, leaving just two to man the fort while they’re gone is risky, not least with it hopeful some cup competitions will still be going by then. What if injury strikes? Is it Calum Chambers and Ben White as a midfield duo?

Which is why Maitland-Niles may well not leave this summer. And, truth be told, with Miguel Azeez being pictured in Portsmouth ahead of what looks to be a season-long loan, it’s almost nailed on that he will stay unless a healthy bid comes in and there is time for a replacement.

With two years left on his deal, there is certain scope for him to retain a place in the squad and fill in at his desired midfield slot, albeit on an infrequent basis as fourth or fifth choice. He would clearly prefer to play regular football, but if Elneny were somehow to depart, and especially with Azeez set to be on his way, then his chances open up further.

Not least because all aside from him are behind the ball midfielders. The most expansive No. 8-like of all of them is Maitland-Niles and some variety in that position wouldn’t go amiss.

He may very well leave due to his contract situation and that he could accrue a healthy £15m, which Arsenal may not be able to turn dow if another signing can be made. This does now look unsurprising, however.