Everton keen to bring former Gunner back to Premier League | OneFootball

Everton are reportedly showing interest in signing Ainsley Maitland‑Niles, two years after he left Arsenal following almost two decades at the club.

Maitland‑Niles, now 27, is under contract at Lyon until 2027 and produced eight goal contributions from right‑back in 43 appearances last season.

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His adaptability, having operated at full‑back, wing‑back and in midfield, is seen as an asset by Everton manager David Moyes, who is trying to reshape his squad this summer.

Sky Sports report that Maitland‑Niles “would be open to a Premier League return” but has also attracted interest from European clubs, including Galatasaray.

Maitland‑Niles joined Arsenal at the age of six and became the club’s second‑youngest European debutant when appearing in the Champions League at 17.

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He went on to make 132 senior appearances, winning three FA Cups, before leaving on a free transfer in 2023 after loan spells with West Bromwich Albion, Southampton, and Roma, where he won the UEFA Conference League in 2021.

His move to Lyon provided regular football and a revival of form that had been missing during his final years in north London.

French media have praised his consistent performances and tactical discipline, particularly when deployed as an overlapping right‑back, while his form prompted talk of a potential England recall in some quarters. He currently has five caps for his country.