By Sam Stone

19th Apr, 2023 | 7:40am

West Ham United 'favourites' for Reiss Nelson transfer amid Arsenal contract standoff on one condition

West Ham United believe they are “favourites” to sign Reiss Nelson if they can secure their Premier League status, according to the Daily Mirror.

The Daily Mail have reported (17 April) that the 23-year-old may not sign a new deal with the Gunners and is settled in London.

Now, according to the Mirror (pg 51, 19 April), West Ham feel they’re in pole position to sign the winger on a free transfer at the end of the season.

It’s believed Nelson is keen to stay at Arsenal but no agreement on a new deal has been reached with Brighton, Aston Villa and a host of European sides interested.

Astute

Nelson has long been an impressive talent but now is the time for the winger to feature consistently. He’s made fleeting appearances for Arsenal this season but, due to his age, he needs to be playing week in and week out.

If he doesn’t sign a new deal at The Emirates, then this could be an astute move by the Hammers. Nelson is not old and could finally develop if given a run of games at the London Stadium. Furthermore, another wide player could well be required.

Said Benrahma and Jarrod Bowen have been ever-presents but both do need competition and considering Nelson is eager to remain in London, this looks like a no-brainer.

He has been highly effective in the small amount of action he has seen with the league-leaders so the hope would be that he can translate that into a greater body of work.

This summer won’t be as hectic as the 2022 off-season for David Moyes. West Ham forked out an extortionate amount which could now see the board act in a more cautious manner when the season does reach its conclusion. Therefore taking advantage of contract wranglings could well be the route for the club to go down.