West Ham United want Arsenal winger Reiss Nelson in summer transfer
West Ham United want to sign out-of-favour Arsenal winger Reiss Nelson in the summer transfer window, according to journalist Steve Kay.
Nelson, 23, has featured just twice under Mikel Arteta this season – amassing just 63 minutes of action – but scored a blistering brace in his one start against Nottingham Forest.
The Gunners academy graduate has fallen further down the pecking order after the January signing of Leandro Trossard, and David Moyes’ side are set to offer the attacker a way out of this predicament at the end of the season.
However, The Transfer Exchange Show’s football correspondent Kay, who is followed by Dharmesh Sheth, reported (Sunday 12 February) that the Hammers would face competition from abroad for the Englishman’s services.
He Tweeted: “West Ham are interested in signing Arsenal winger Reiss Nelson in the upcoming summer transfer window.
“Also, according to sources, Italian club Sassuolo have enquired about the player.”
Plenty of potential
Although looking like a brilliant prospect as he rose through the ranks at Arsenal, Nelson has never quite managed to solidify his position in the first team, and a transfer away this summer could help to reignite his career.
In the brief moments of exposure he has been warranted this season, the winger has looked pacey, skilful and full of running – something that the Hammers have lacked at times this season.
When looking at the likes of Said Benrahma, Pablo Fornals and Manuel Lanzini on the left flank, none of these options can really stretch a defence and use their pace to cause opposition defences trouble. Therefore a move for Nelson makes complete sense, and he could well be available on a cut-price deal due to his lack of minutes this season.
Nelson has proven he can deliver on the big stage, netting six goals in 12 England Under-21 appearances, and could be a brilliant long-term option for West Ham to invest in.