Anthony Onifade

Wed 8 March 2023 21:47, UK

West Ham are one of a number of sides interested in Arsenal forward Reiss Nelson, who will be a free agent at the end of the season, according to 90min journalist Graeme Bailey.

The South London-born winger, recently dubbed “special” by Gunners boss Mikel Arteta, is into the final months of his deal with the north London side which is set to expire at the end of the campaign.

The Daily Mail reported on 6 March the Gunners are already holding talks with the 23-year-old over potentially extending his stay at the Emirates Stadium.

But speaking on Talking Transfers podcast [8 March], transfer insider Bailey has suggested there are a number of clubs eyeing the Englishman, including the Hammers.

He said: “Reiss Nelson, really interesting one. Out of contract at the end of the season.

“He’s 23 already, Nelson, which I think says a lot, really.

“I just think he does want to stay. But he’s got an awful lot of interest out there from a lot of clubs – West Ham being one of them.”

New lease of life

Despite his amazing potential and current ability, Nelson has regularly struggled to hold down a regular place at the Gunners.

Reports emerging that he could well sign a new deal at the Emirates are quite surprising considering he would still remain a bit-part player with Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli still Arteta’s favoured attackers.

A permanent move in the summer could prove a smart decision from the Englishman in a bid to pick up some regular first-team football, and the Hammers represent the ideal next step in his career should the club secure their standing in the Premier League.

Nelson desperately needs a new lease of life, and a manager to entrust him with consistent starting opportunities.

However, there will be much change at West Ham this summer, with potential changes taking place in management as well as on the pitch, which means Nelson will be walking into a bit of uncertainty at the London Stadium which may not be the ideal conditions for his next move.