Arsenal have focus in the transfer market on both the defence and the midfield but there’s also scope for the forward line to see reinforcement. That is of course should the club need to but there is an expectation of a number of departures from the positions.
Folarin Balogun and Eddie Nketiah could both seek moves away from the side after failing to nail down more regular appearances for the club. However, it is Reiss Nelson who has recently been brought into focus as Arsenal desperately attempt to tie down the winger.
Having already had two contract offers knocked back football.london understands, there have been reports of a third offer being made. Nelson remaining at the club could save sporting director Edu Gaspar some money on finding a competitor to Bukayo Saka.
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The England international has lacked competition in the right-wing role but Nelson has impressed when coming off the bench and has moved firmly ahead of Emile Smith Rowe in Mikel Arteta’s pecking order. His goals against Nottingham Forest and Bournemouth were crucial in this season’s title race and it has become evident the Spanish manager does not want to lose him.
Moussa Diaby has been reportedly targeted by Arsenal however Bayer Leverkusen want a very high amount to part ways with the French international. It could be a figure beyond £50million and with interest in Declan Rice and Moises Caicedo in combination with other targets if Arsenal can save money by keeping a talent it might be for the best.
Arteta has two big opportunities coming up to convince Nelson he is indeed in his plans. With two more games of the season remaining against Nottingham Forest and Wolves, the Arsenal manager could look to start the former England youth international.
Gabriel Martinelli is now expected to miss the rest of the season having suffered an ankle injury in a challenge with Caicedo in the defeat to Brighton. Leandro Trossard is the most likely to take the spot having replaced the Brazilian as a substitute last weekend.
However, it could be that Arteta instead chooses to use Nelson in a show of faith toward the winger. He has looked the most bright of all of his manager’s substitutes and has arguably earned the opportunity.
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