Reiss Nelson has signed a new Arsenal contract, the club has confirmed.
The 23-year-old has technically been a free agent since last Friday (June 30) when his previous deal expired, but it was always expected that he would re-sign and that's been the case with an official announcement coming via the club's official website and social media channels.
"Reiss Nelson has signed a new long-term contract," a statement reads. "The 23-year-old played a vital role last season, making 18 appearances in all competitions, scoring and assisting both three times, including his memorable late winner against Bournemouth in March."
At one point it did seem as if Nelson was to leave Arsenal on a free transfer as football.london reported that he had rejected two offers for an extension towards the end of last season, but it's understood that after reopening talks, the club were confident a deal could be finalised.
It's understood that the winger, who had serious interest from AC Milan and Brighton before committing his future to his boyhood club has signed a new deal that runs until the summer of 2027, although there is the option for a further year and it's thought that Mikel Arteta played a key role in negotiations to convince him to stay.
Speaking of the Arsenal manager, he has revealed his delight at the news: "Reiss is a player I have admired since the first day I was here. He has tremendous ability and is such an exciting offensive talent," the Spaniard said. "Reiss knows how important he is to our squad with the quality he has. It's great that Reiss has committed his future to us - he knows this club so well, he grew up here and we look forward to enjoying many more good moments with him."
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Meanwhile, sporting director Edu Gaspar shared the same view: "Reiss is still only 23 years old but has already made a significant contribution to Arsenal for many years. He has gained good experience on loan, has come back and showed just how valuable he is to us," he said. "We are so happy to agree a new deal with Reiss, and we are proud that he is another young player who has developed through our Academy into our first team."
The news continues a busy week for Edu and Richard Garlick who also managed to secure the future of highly rated academy star Ethan Nwaneri. Furthermore, football.london understands William Saliba has signed a new contract in addition and perhaps he will be next in terms of announcements.
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