Brighton have earmarked versatile Arsenal midfielder Ainsley Maitland-Niles as a summer transfer target, claims the London Evening Standard.
Graham Potter's side are accelerating their transfer plans for next season after securing their Premier League status with a point against Newcastle on Monday night.
Maitland-Niles faces an uncertain future at Arsenal despite starting Saturday's FA Cup semi-final victory over Manchester City.
The 22-year-old has done well to work his way back into contention under Mikel Arteta when it seemed his time at Arsenal was up but he could still leave this summer.
Maitland-Niles broke onto the scene at right-back during Hector Bellerin's long spell on the sidelines but he sees his future in central midfield.
While Arteta has praised Maitland-Niles' versatility, he would likely consider his sale, with Brighton keen, if it meant boosting Arsenal's transfer budget.
The former England under-21 international has made 19 league appearances this season but last started a Premier League game in January.
Of Arsenal players to have started at least 10 Premier League matches this season, Maitland-Niles averages the most tackles per 90 (2.7).
