Reiss Nelson: Arsenal no closer to contract breakthrough as five Prem rivals chase latest matchwinner

Reiss Nelson may have done his chances of earning a longer stay at Arsenal a favour with his match-winning goal on Saturday, but a report has warned there has been little progress to update on, while at least nine clubs are chasing him.

Nelson has been a fringe player at Arsenal this season, making just eight appearances in all competitions. But if they go on to win the Premier League title, he will have played a significant part. Indeed, on Saturday, he scored the winning goal in their dramatic comeback against Bournemouth.

Thanks to Nelson’s goal in the 97th minute, Arsenal claimed a 3-2 win to maintain their five-point lead at the top of the table. It could become an iconic moment if they see it through from here.

Whether Nelson will be part of their squad next season, though, remains up for question. His contract is due to expire in June.

After failing to start a Premier League match yet this season, the 23-year-old could have reasonable concerns about his gametime going forward at the Emirates Stadium. At his age, it may be better to find somewhere to play more regularly.

However, it could be equally tempting to stay with Arsenal as they prepare for a probable return to the Champions League. Hence, there could be discussions about a contract extension.

According to 90min, though, there has been little progress on that front. Talks will continue, per the report, but there is no sign of an agreement yet.

In the meantime, Nelson has already fielded offers from clubs in France, Germany and Italy. The report does not mention which clubs – or how many of them – might be involved.

But even if there is only one suitor per territory, that would be three clubs to add to a six-strong list of sides willing to offer him a new challenge in England.

90min‘s report references Brentford, Crystal Palace, West Ham, Burnley, Everton, Southampton as clubs who are interested in the winger.

The first trio would be able to keep Nelson in London specifically. West Ham may be ones to watch, since they have already been linked before. Alternatively, after loan spells with Feyenoord and Hoffenheim, he could challenge himself further afield.

Reiss Nelson might still need Arsenal exit

All being well, Nelson should be able to make his mark in the Premier League next season, whatever he decides. Burnley are on course for promotion to the top flight, while the other five are already there.

That said, Southampton, Everton and West Ham are in particular danger in the relegation battle. Hence, Nelson will just have to wait and see what opportunity will be best once the season is over.

Across his Arsenal career, he has played 56 times, scoring seven goals. To fulfil his potential, though, he might need to move on, to make moments like the one he experienced on Saturday more likely to happen again (even if not quite to the same magnitude).

But the thought may also reside on how Eddie Nketiah was at a similar crossroads this time last year and ended up staying after a run in the team. Perhaps it might not be too late for Nelson either.

Still, a departure seems the most sensible option – and he could leave with his head held high if they win the title. His future is all to play for.

READ MORE: Promising Arsenal talent headlines six-strong potential departures list ahead of ‘very expensive summer’