EPL club in talks with Arsenal over loan with obligation to buy deal for 24-year-old attacker: Reports
Arsenal are reportedly in talks with Leicester City over the loan and eventual sale of Reiss Nelson. The English winger's future at the Emirates is uncertain amid a lack of game time under Mikel Arteta.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reports that Leicester have opened talks with the Gunners about a loan with an obligation to buy. The two clubs are discussing finances, and the Foxes are confident they can persuade Nelson to join.
Nelson earned 11 caps at the England U17 level under Steve Cooper, who took over at the King Power earlier this summer. They feel this could play a significant role in attracting the versatile forward to reunite with his former coach.
Arsenal handed Nelson a new long-term contract last July, keeping him tied to the Emirates until 2027. He appeared to be part of Arteta's plans, with the Spanish coach lauding him (via the club's official website):
"Reiss is a player I have admired since the first day I was here. He has tremendous ability and is such an exciting offensive talent."
However, first-team opportunities were limited last season. Nelson started five of 24 games across competitions, registering one goal and three assists. The Hale End academy product previously spent spells on loan at Bundesliga side Hoffenheim under Julian Nagelsmann and Eredivisie giants Feyenoord under Arne Slot.
Leicester could face competition from West Ham for Arsenal's Reiss Nelson: Reports
Leicester aren't the only Premier League club seemingly interested in signing Nelson this summer. West Ham United are also pursuing the Englishman and have reportedly opened talks with Arsenal about a permanent deal, per Football Insider.
There are expected to be no issues regarding personal terms being agreed between the Hammers and Nelson. They are promising him more first-team football at the London Stadium.
Nelson seems to have two options if he leaves the Emirates this summer. He can reunite with his former national team manager and help Leicester in their first season back in the top flight.
However, he might be tempted to join West Ham, who have recently started challenging for European qualification. Julen Lopetegui has replaced David Moyes in the dugout and the Spanish coach has a fine resume of developing talent.
Nelson debuted for Arsenal's senior team at the age of 17 in August 2017. He's since made 89 appearances, posting eight goals and nine assists for his boyhood club.