Ainsley Maitland-Niles 'set for Arsenal return after Roma loan'

Roma have reportedly opted against taking up their option to sign Arsenal midfielder Ainsley Maitland-Niles on a permanent deal.

Having fallen down the pecking order at the Emirates Stadium, the England international was allowed to move to Stadio Olimpico on a temporary basis in January.

However, while the 24-year-old was drafted straight into the team upon his arrival, he ended the campaign with just 10 starts and two substitute appearances in all competitions.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Roma have no intention of holding negotiations with Arsenal regarding a fee for a permanent transfer.

The Gunners are now left in a position where they will have to search for a new buyer for the academy graduate, who has just a year remaining on his contract.

Neither party are expected to be open to an extension of the current deal with just four starts having been made during the first half of the season.