CHERRIES are among a group of clubs to have shown interest in versatile Arsenal midfielder Ainsley Maitland-Niles, according to the Daily Express.

Maitland-Niles, an England international with five senior caps, has been unable to force his way in this season for the table-topping Gunners.

The 24-year-old has not been part of the 20-man matchday squad for any of Arsenal's opening three Premier League games of the season, including Saturday's 3-0 win over Cherries at Vitality Stadium.

With the transfer deadline now little over a week away, the Express claim Arsenal "expect to offload" Maitland-Niles, with West Ham, Cherries, Fulham and "two Europe clubs" reportedly "among those to show interest".

The Arsenal academy graduate is said to be entering the final year of his contract, having previously spent loan spells away at Ipswich Town, West Bromwich Albion and, last season, Roma.

Should no clubs be willing to strike a deal for a permanent move for the midfielder, who can also operate at wing-back, an extension to his contract at the north London club combined with another loan move could also reportedly be a possibility.

The Express also report Cherries remain interested in Blackpool winger Josh Bowler, a player heavily linked during the January transfer window.