Nottingham Forest face problem in Arsenal transfer bid

Nottingham Forest could be set for a transfer blow in their reported pursuit of Arsenal's Ainsley Maitland-Niles.

Forest are seeking a replacement for Djed Spence, who returned to his parent club, Middlesbrough, following an impressive loan spell at the City Ground. And the Gunners are thought to be willing to offload the 24-year-old.

Steve Cooper is familiar with the midfielder whom he coached at under-17s level for England. Maitland-Niles progressed through the Gunners' academy ranks, before making his senior debut in 2014.

However, he has since failed to cement a regular place in the Gunners' squad, making just 72 appearances in the last eight years. His most recent loan spell at Italian side Roma also did not go to plan, despite winning the Europa Conference League trophy with Jose Mourinho's side.

But, while the Gunners are believed to be willing to cash in on him, there is one thing standing in the way of a potential deal coming to fruition - his wages.

Maitland-Niles is thought to be on £52,000 a week at the Emirates.