- Crystal Palace eye ex-Arsenal star Maitland-Niles
- Lyon star has a year left on contract
- Pierre Sage coached him
Crystal Palace are reportedly looking to hand Pierre Sage a reunion with former Arsenal star Ainsley Maitland-Niles. The Englishman’s contract expires in June 2027 and he’s already being talked up for a return to the Premier League.
According to French outlet Foot Mercato, Maitland-Niles is on Palace’s radar following Sage’s appointment. The new Eagles boss coached the player at Lyon in Ligue 1.
Maitland-Niles has been in France since the summer of 2023, when he left Arsenal as a free agent. He has impressed at Groupama Stadium and registered two goals and four assists in 42 games across competitions.
Palace want Maitland-Niles
Maitland-Niles spent time playing under Sage and could be attracted to reuniting with the French coach. His career had been at somewhat of a crossroads when he headed to Lyon, but he has since enjoyed a resurgence.
Palace’s reported transfer plans include strengthening Sage’s squad with a new right-back, central defender, two new central midfielders and an attacking midfielder. Maitland-Niles’ versatility could be a huge asset as he is a right-back who can drop into midfield.
The 28-year-old has Premier League experience not just from his time at Arsenal but with Southampton. While with the Gunners, he made 132 appearances, posting three goals and eight assists.
There’s no word on how much Palace would be asked to fork out for the player. It is noted that he could be on the move this summer and Selhurst Park might be a possible destination.
Why Sage likes Maitland-Niles
Sage previously spoke highly of Maitland-Niles’ qualities during his time managing Lyon. He highlighted his versatile profile while speaking in February 2024 (via GONES RADIO):
“When he plays right back, he often plays everything except as a full back. The game brings him to other positions. He has fairly broad characteristics. He can play in tight spaces. I think he has been a victim of this versatility.”
Palace might view Maitland-Niles as a solid option to provide Daniel Munoz with competition and as a potential Nathaniel Clyne replacement. The Englishman ticks plenty of boxes for the South Londoners and could be available at a cut-price fee given his contract situation.
