Marcus Bent believes that Crystal Palace is Ainsley Maitland-Niles' sort of level.

The 23-year-old, who can play at full-back or in midfield, came through the ranks at Arsenal and won the FA Cup with the club in 2019-2020.

But Maitland-Niles' opportunities were limited before Christmas last season, which led to him going out on loan to West Brom.

He impressed during his short spell at the Hawthorns, starting all but three of their Premier League matches following his arrival, although he couldn't stop the Baggies from slipping into the Championship.

Maitland-Niles still has two years left on his deal in north London, but according to Football.London, Palace are watching him closely, with regular football far more likely at Selhurst Park.

The Gunners academy graduate played in midfield for his entire spell with West Brom, a position he isn't likely to be given the opportunity in at Arsenal, and Bent reckons that signing for his former side would be a great step for him:

He exclusively told Football FanCast:

"I think that's his level, whether they sign him or take him on loan. It will be amazing for Palace to sign him, he's still in London, and they play quick, attacking football."