Arsenal transfer round-up: Maitland-Niles battle, extra Bellerin interest

As we wait for more concrete news on Arsenal’s pursuit of Gabriel Magalhaes, attention turns to those who might be on their way out of north London.

Mikel Arteta has already added Willian to his ranks, and completed permanent moves for last season’s on-loan duo Pablo Mari and Cedric Soares, with Gabriel reportedly close to becoming the fourth summer signing.

However, Arsenal may need to sell before they can make any further investments, with a number of candidates set for the exit door.

We’ve got the latest on three men who have been attracting interest from around Europe, at least one of whom seems set to earn the London club a tidy sum if his permanent exit is completed.

Ainsley Maitland-Niles is attracting plenty of attention (Image: REUTERS) Read More Related Articles Read More Related Articles Second Premier League club joins the race for Maitland-Niles

Ainsley Maitland-Niles appears to be on his way out this summer, with the versatile academy product attracting interest from Wolverhampton Wanderers.

There have been reports of a £20million switch to Molineux, but it looks as though Nuno’s team aren’t the only ones mounting a bid for the 22-year-old.

According to Football Insider, Newcastle United have made a late effort to steal a march on their rivals, though Wolves remain favourites.

The Magpies are reportedly ready to match their rivals’ four-year offer, having already added to their squad with the signing of Jeff Hendrick.

However, with Wolves having reportedly agreed a fee and personal terms, Steve Bruce’s men face a race against time to get in on the act.

Hector Bellerin could be heading for the exit door (Image: Getty Images) Bellerin linked with two Champions League clubs

With Arsenal confirming their long-term signings of Pablo Mari and Cedric Soares, there have been more murmurs of an exit for Hector Bellerin.

The academy graduate worked his way back into the fold under Mikel Arteta at the end of last season, having struggled with injuries in the early part of the season.

However, reports in France have linked the Spain international with Paris Saint-Germain, who are in search of reinforcements on the right after losing Thomas Meunier to Borussia Dortmund.

According to Calciomercato (via Sport Witness), Juventus are also looking at Bellerin, with the Italian publication suggesting Juve’s new manager Andrea Pirlo is a fan of the right-back, though the Serie A champions are also said to be looking at Ajax’s Sergino Dest.

Juve have already made one signing this summer, bringing in Barcelona and Brazil midfielder Arthur in a deal which saw Miralem Pjanic move in the opposite direction.

Blaise Matuidi has also left Turin, moving to Inter Miami in MLS, while more departures are anticipated.

Gunners reject bid for Smith Rowe

Emile Smith Rowe seemingly remains in Arsenal’s long-term plans, if reports about the rejection of a permanent bid for the midfielder are to be believed.

The midfielder impressed on loan at Huddersfield Town in the second half of last season, scoring twice to help the Terriers keep hold of their Championship status.

While he might not be an immediate starter in the 2020/21 campaign, the 20-year-old Englishman appears to be valued by Mikel Arteta.

According to the Mail, the Gunners have knocked back a bid from Monaco, who were keen to clinch a permanent deal for the academy product.

“He needed that exposure and he looks more mature now,” Arteta previously said of Smith Rowe during the Huddersfield stint. “I think he will be in a much better place when he comes back in pre-season.”

The Mail’s report notes that Monaco sporting director Paul Mitchell is a long-term fan of the creative midfielder, and was involved in taking him on loan to RB Leipzig during the 2018/19 season.

However, Smith Rowe, who made his Premier League debut for Arsenal last season, is not believed to be among the players who Arteta is prepared to let leave.