West Ham United are eyeing a move for Arsenal’s Reiss Nelson as they look to bolster their attacking options ahead of the new season, according to The Telegraph.
The 24-year-old has found first-team opportunities limited at the Emirates Stadium, with the likes of Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, and Leandro Trossard preferred in wide attacking roles.
The Arsenal academy graduate made just one Premier League start last season and faces an uphill battle to secure regular football under Mikel Arteta.
As a result, the England Under-21 international is believed to be considering his future and could be open to a move that promises more playing time.
Arsenal are willing to part ways with Nelson for a fee in the region of £15 million to £20 million, which is affordable for the Irons. Hammers boss Julen Lopetegui has the Arsenal man on his radar.
Nelson can adeptly deputise for Lucas Paqueta on the left flank, with the Brazilian facing an uncertain future at the club.
Nelson could join Paqueta, Jarrod Bowen, Luis Guilherme, and Mohammed Kudus in the fight for a starting berth next season.
West Ham have been quick out of the blocks in the transfer window, signing Max Kilman from Wolverhampton Wanderers, Sheffield United’s Wes Foderingham, and Guilherme from Palmeiras, but there are still a couple of holes to plug.
The Hammers have not yet signed a centre-forward to succeed Michail Antonio and continue searching for a right-back to deputise and potentially usurp Vladimir Coufal.
Nelson could be a shrewd addition
The London-born star brings Premier League experience, youth, and raw talent. His pace, directness, and ability to cut inside from the left flank could provide a refreshing change of pace for West Ham’s attacking play.
Kudus, Paqueta, Guilherme, and Bowen are predominantly left-footed. Nelson’s right-footedness offers a different angle of attack, potentially opening up new spaces for his teammates.
Moreover, Nelson has plenty of untapped potential. Under the guidance of Lopetegui, who has a proven track record of developing young talent, he can flourish.
He may not be the marquee signing West Ham fans want, but Nelson’s acquisition can be smart business. If he can recapture his best form and secure regular playing time, he will become a valuable asset to the club.