Arsenal is reportedly in discussions over winger Reiss Nelson and a potential move to newly-promoted Leicester City, with the deal structured as an initial loan with an obligation to buy next summer.
The news, broken by Fabrizio Romano, suggests that Leicester are confident of securing Nelson’s signature, citing his previous working relationship with Leicester manager Steve Cooper during their time with England’s under-19s.
![Arsenal and Leicester open £15m winger talks 1 West Ham United's Czech defender #05 Vladimir Coufal (L) fights for the ball with Arsenal's English midfielder 24 Reiss Nelson during the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and West Ham at the Emirates Stadium in London on December 28, 2023. (Photo by HENRY NICHOLLS/AFP via Getty Images)](https://dailycannon.com/static/uploads/2023/12/fbl-eng-pr-arsenal-west-ham-2-scaled-e1719047532881.jpg)
Reiss Nelson, a product of Arsenal’s academy, has struggled for regular game time at the Emirates Stadium, playing second fiddle to Bukayo Saka. Despite signing a new contract last year, the 24-year-old has reportedly expressed his desire for a move to secure more playing time.
The Foxes are keen to add Nelson’s attacking flair to their squad as they prepare for their return to the Premier League.
![Arsenal and Leicester open £15m winger talks 2 LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 04: Reiss Nelson of Arsenal scores the team's third goal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and AFC Bournemouth at Emirates Stadium on March 04, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)](https://dailycannon.com/static/uploads/2023/03/arsenal-fc-v-afc-bournemouth-premier-league-8-scaled-e1678183414266.jpg)
Arsenal are reportedly open to the deal, valuing Nelson at around £15 million. The structure of the transfer, with an initial loan followed by an obligation to buy, could provide financial flexibility for both clubs.
Nelson, currently on Arsenal’s pre-season tour of the USA, is yet to agree to personal terms with Leicester. However, the Foxes remain confident that they can persuade the winger to join them, given his past experience with manager Steve Cooper.
The potential move to Leicester City represents a significant opportunity for Nelson to establish himself as a regular starter and showcase his talent on a consistent basis. For Arsenal, it could be a chance to recoup a fee for a player who has struggled to break into the first team on a regular basis.