Southampton have reportedly held talks with Arsenal to discuss a loan deal for Ainsley Maitland-Niles.
The midfielder spent the second half of last season on loan at Roma after falling down the pecking order at Arsenal.
Despite returning for pre-season with the Gunners, Maitland-Niles does not feature in Mikel Arteta's plans for the season, and with less than 12 months on his contract, he is expected to leave the club before the transfer window closes.
A recent report suggested that the 24-year-old has been offered to West Ham United, but they are currently prioritising other signings.
According to the Daily Mail, Southampton are leading the race to sign Maitland-Niles after holding talks over a loan deal with Arsenal.
Although the Gunners would prefer to agree a permanent transfer to prevent the Englishman from leaving on a free transfer next summer, they are open to a loan move that includes a buy option.
The Saints could still face competition from Bournemouth, while West Ham could still decide to make a move before the transfer window closes.
