In a dramatic turn of events just before the transfer window closed, it was reported that Arsenal and Fulham had entered talks over a loan move for Reiss Nelson after discussions with Ipswich Town collapsed late on.

The 24-year-old winger is seeking regular first-team football away from the Emirates Stadium, and the potential switch to Fulham could provide him with that opportunity.

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 04: Reiss Nelson of Arsenal celebrates at full time after scoring the winning goal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and AFC Bournemouth at Emirates Stadium on March 04, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND – MARCH 04: Reiss Nelson of Arsenal celebrates at full time after scoring the winning goal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and AFC Bournemouth at Emirates Stadium on March 04, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

Earlier in the evening, Sky Sports reported that four Premier League clubs had expressed interest in signing Nelson. With Arsenal’s focus on signing Raheem Sterling, the club was more inclined to allow Nelson to leave, providing him with the chance to play regularly elsewhere.

Nelson, a product of Arsenal’s renowned Hale End academy, has long been considered one of the club’s most promising talents. He made his first-team debut for Arsenal in 2017 at the age of 17 during a UEFA Europa League match against BATE Borisov. His early performances caught the eye, and he quickly established himself as a player with immense potential.

Throughout his time at Arsenal, Nelson has shown flashes of brilliance, particularly during loan spells at Hoffenheim in the Bundesliga, where he scored seven goals in 23 appearances during the 2018/19 season. His pace, dribbling ability, and versatility across the front line made him a valuable asset for Arsenal, but consistent first-team opportunities have been hard to come by.

During the 2023/24 season, Nelson made 639 minutes of first-team appearances for Arsenal, finding himself on the periphery of Mikel Arteta’s plans.

Throughout the summer, Nelson had been linked with several clubs, including Leicester City and West Ham United.

John Percy of The Telegraph recently reported that Leicester remained interested in Nelson despite concerns over his significant wages, reportedly exceeding £120,000 a week. However, Leicester’s budget constraints prevented any concrete progress in their pursuit.

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

Should he sign for Fulham, he will reunited with Emile Smith Rowe, Alex Iwobi and Bernd Leno.