Arsenal are to open talks with Reiss Nelson over a new deal at the Emirates Stadium, following the 23-year-old's blockbuster winning goal against Bournemouth at the weekend.
Nelson, who graduated through the club's famed Hale End academy, has struggled with injuries and earning consistent game-time since making his debut under Arsene Wenger in 2018. After loan spells in Europe at Hoffenheim under Julian Nagelsmann and Feyenoord under Arne Slot, he was expected to leave last summer – but again suffered an injury setback.
Despite his contract coming to a close at the end of this season and six other options in the Arsenal side ahead of him now, though, Nelson has still earned minutes in the Europa League and before the Bournemouth fixture, netted twice off the bench against Nottingham Forest.
With Nelson a free agent in the summer, however, the Mail says that, "discussions over an extension are underway, with hope growing that the intention from all parties is to agree on a deal for Nelson to stay."
The report also claims that "Arsenal are confident the winger wants to remain in north London, raising hope that a positive resolution can be found."
Arteta has consistently brought Nelson into the side when fit and even started him in his first game in management – another fixture against Bournemouth in December 2019.
The winger was hugely rated as a youth player at the Hale End academy and played alongside the likes of Jadon Sancho in the England youth set-up. The goal prompted Ian Wright to tell Match of the Day viewers, "I'm so happy for Reiss after everything that has happened to him at Arsenal," in reference to his struggles for consistency.
The contract offer would certainly suggest that in the mid-term at least, Nelson is a part of Arteta's plans – though an extension to his deal would protect his value, should Arsenal wish to sell. West Ham United and Crystal Palace have been linked with the star.
Nelson is valued at just €7 million by Transfermarkt.
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The rumour mill is going into overdrive with Arsenal leading the way in the race to sign Declan Rice. One source claims a contract has been agreed with the midfielder, though Manchester City are interested, too. West Ham apparently have a successor lined up.
In other rumours, Raheem Sterling is being targeted, with a centre-forward on the wishlist, according to reports. A bid for Raphinha has been revealed while Rasmus Holjund of Atalanta is on the radar, too. January target Ivan Fresneda is still wanted by the Gunners, as well.
Meanwhile, Chelsea star Mykhaylo Mudryk – who turned down Arsenal in the winter window – has addressed his supposed unhappiness at Stamford Bridge.
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