There is a general consensus that Reiss Nelson is leaving Arsenal, although his next destination remains uncertain.
For some time now, it has seemed inevitable that Nelson’s tenure at Arsenal would conclude this summer. Since joining Hale End in 2007, he has grown into a player with 89 senior appearances for the Gunners. However, at 24, he is in dire need of a fresh start to rejuvenate his career.
Nelson has been sporadically included in Mikel Arteta’s plans at the Emirates, and it has been assumed that breaking into the first team for a consistent and significant period would be a challenge for him. Last season, Nelson made 15 Premier League appearances, with 14 coming off the bench.
With rumors of additional attacking players arriving at Arsenal this summer, his position in the squad hierarchy is likely to diminish further.
In this context, Nelson is being linked with a move away, and reports suggest there could be competition for his signature.
West Ham has been frequently mentioned as a potential destination for the winger in recent weeks. However, according to The Times, newly-promoted Leicester City might rival the Hammers in their pursuit of Nelson.
Leicester City is reportedly proposing an initial loan deal for Nelson with an obligation to buy, banking on the player’s previous working relationship with manager Steve Cooper at the England youth level to give them an advantage. Arsenal, however, are said to be demanding around £15 million for their academy graduate.
There are potential obstacles to this deal. Firstly, West Ham appears to be leading the race for Nelson at present. Secondly, it is uncertain whether Arsenal would agree to an initial loan deal or prefer an immediate payment for the forward.
Despite these challenges, Leicester should be determined to secure Nelson’s signature in the coming days and weeks.
The Foxes have already made four signings this summer: Abdul Fatawu from Sporting CP for around £17 million, Michael Golding from Chelsea, Caleb Okoli from Atalanta, and Bobby Decordova-Reid from Fulham on a free transfer.
Of these, only Decordova-Reid is an attacking addition not previously on their books. For Leicester to have a realistic chance of avoiding relegation, they likely need to strengthen their squad further.
Nelson is a highly talented player who needs a chance to prove himself as a key figure, and he would likely receive that opportunity at Leicester’s King Power Stadium.
For both Nelson and Leicester, this transfer seems highly beneficial. Now, it is up to Leicester to ensure the deal goes through.
