Ipswich Town are reportedly in advanced discussions to secure a loan deal for Reiss Nelson from Arsenal, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The potential move could pave the way for Raheem Sterling to join Arsenal from Chelsea.

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)
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)

Earlier this evening, Sky Sports reported that four Premier League clubs had expressed interest in signing Nelson.

However, with Arsenal now deep in negotiations over a loan deal for Sterling, the door has seemingly opened for Nelson to seek regular playing time elsewhere, with Ipswich emerging as the frontrunner.

The 24-year-old winger has been on the radar of several clubs throughout the summer.

John Percy of The Telegraph recently reported that Leicester City remained interested in Nelson, despite concerns over his significant wages, reportedly exceeding £120,000 a week.

While Leicester had been linked to Nelson earlier in the transfer window, their budget constraints appeared to hinder any concrete progress.

West Ham United were also rumoured to be in the mix for Nelson, but the Hammers ultimately opted to sign Crysencio Summerville from Leeds United, making a move for Nelson increasingly unlikely.

Arsenal's English midfielder Reiss Nelson (C) celebrates after scoring his team third goal of the team during the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and Bournemouth at the Emirates Stadium in London on March 4, 2023. (Photo by GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images)
Arsenal’s English midfielder Reiss Nelson (C) celebrates after scoring his team third goal of the team during the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and Bournemouth at the Emirates Stadium in London on March 4, 2023. (Photo by GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images)

Nelson’s current contract with Arsenal runs until 2027, with an option to extend to 2028, meaning the Gunners are under no immediate pressure to sell.

However, the club’s pursuit of Raheem Sterling has shifted the dynamics, potentially facilitating Nelson’s exit on loan to gain valuable first-team experience.

Nelson, who played 639 minutes for Arsenal during the 2023/24 season, has found himself on the periphery of Mikel Arteta’s squad.

For Ipswich Town, signing Nelson would represent a significant coup. The club, looking to strengthen their squad for the season, sees Nelson as a player who can add both quality and depth to their attacking options.

Nelson’s versatility across the front line, combined with his Premier League experience, would make him a valuable asset as Ipswich aims to strengthen their promotion push.