Arsenal reportedly rebuffed approaches for Reiss Nelson from “more than three clubs” and he has been backed to play an “important” role under Mikel Arteta.
It may be a surprise to some to hear that Nelson is still only 22 years old. He made his Premier League debut for Arsenal in January 2018.
The winger was sent out on loan to Feyenoord last season with opportunities to play for the Gunners hard to come by.
Another move away from Arsenal was expected in the summer but he edned up sticking around.
Nelson missed the start of this season with a thigh injury but he made his first league appearance of the season over the weekend against Nottm Forest.
He was brought on in the first-half for Bukayo Saka, who should be fit for the World Cup after picking up a knock.
Nelson made the most of this rare opportunity as he scored twice and provided an assist as Arsenal ran out 5-0 winners. This victory saw Mikel Arteta’s side return to the top of the Premier League.
Club legend Ian Wright has been full of praise for Nelson as he made a “big step” against Forest.
“Delighted for him,” said Wright. “It’s a credit to him and the work he has put in. He has been there for a long time. People saying he should have left by now or gone on loan.
“But he stayed. Mikel’s given everyone an opportunity if you are impressing and working hard, then you will get a chance and he has done that.
“He’s been re-paid for his hard work and I am pleased for him because he’s Arsenal through and through. Desperate to play for Arsenal. Desperate to get himself into the first team. This is a big step towards that.”
Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has meanwhile confirmed that “more than three clubs” enquired about Nelson in the summer.
“Reiss Nelson came off the bench for Arsenal at the weekend, scoring twice and assisting a goal,” Romano wrote for Caught Offside.
“Nelson had the opportunity to leave the club on loan during the summer transfer window.
“More than three clubs asked for Nelson on loan in the summer, but Arsenal decided to keep him. Mikel Arteta was really happy with his approach to training.
“Nelson can be a really important player for Arsenal to be used when rotating their squad for now.”
Romano has also suggested that Arsenal are no longer in the running to sign long-term target Houssem Aouar.
“Lyon midfielder Houssem Aouar has been linked with a Premier League move recently, with Arsenal reportedly interested in him,” Romano added.
“As of now, there are no talks between Arsenal and Aouar. There are many clubs interested, including from the Premier League.
“Nottingham Forest and Sevilla were interested in signing Aouar during the summer transfer. Let’s see what happens in January or next summer.”
READ MORE: Arsenal have their unsung hero to thank for a return to form – and England have to take note