Arsenal left Bernd Leno out of their matchday squad to face FC Nurnberg on Friday because a transfer exit is so close, according to a report.

Arsenal's German goalkeeper Bernd Leno (R) punches the ball during the English Premier League football match between Aston Villa and Arsenal at Villa Park in Birmingham, central England, on March 19, 2022. (Photo by ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images)
Arsenal’s German goalkeeper Bernd Leno (R) punches the ball during the English Premier League football match between Aston Villa and Arsenal at Villa Park in Birmingham, central England, on March 19, 2022. (Photo by ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images)

German outlet Bild claim Arsenal’s decision not to name Bernd Leno in their squad to face FC Nurnberg this week was because they didn’t want to risk an injury jeopardising the goalkeeper’s transfer to Fulham.

Arsenal and Fulham are reportedly close to agreeing on a fee for Leno, with the player already agreeing personal terms on a contract to 2025 with the London club – and an option to extend to 2026.

Leno wants the move to try and get regular football ahead of the World Cup, with Fulham able to offer him a starting role.

A few days ago, reports suggested that Fulham were looking to tie up a deal to sign Leno from Arsenal, with an agreement appearing close.

David Ornstein initially broke the news of the talks, with Sky Sports later confirming contact between the two clubs.

The Evening Standard claim the goalkeeper spoke with Edu before the end of the season and they reportedly agreed he could leave.

Arsenal's German goalkeeper Bernd Leno stands on the pitch during the English Premier League football match between Aston Villa and Arsenal at Villa Park in Birmingham, central England, on March 19, 2022. (Photo by ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images)
Arsenal’s German goalkeeper Bernd Leno stands on the pitch during the English Premier League football match between Aston Villa and Arsenal at Villa Park in Birmingham, central England, on March 19, 2022. (Photo by ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images)

Kicker have since reported that PSV Eindhoven also hold an interest in signing Leno this summer.

But Fulham are the only club reported by reliable outlets to have actually opened talks. It seems they’re now close to winning the race.

Leno kept a first-half clean sheet in Arsenal’s opening pre-season friendly against Ipswich Town last week, playing his first 45 minutes of the team’s preparations. That may have been his final appearance.