Arsenal open contract extension talks with Reiss Nelson

Arsenal have begun contract extension negotiations with Reiss Nelson, according to Fabrizio Romano.

Nelson’s current deal with the Gunners expires this summer and he could walk away from the Emirates Stadium as a free agent with clubs abroad showing interest.

The 23-year-old spent the last season on loan with Eredivisie giants Feyenoord, helping the Dutch side to a third-placed finish with two goals and four assists in 21 league games.

Since his return to Mikel Arteta’s side, the Englishman has barely featured for the Gunners but proved an effective ace in last month’s 3-2 win over Bournemouth.

Nelson delivered a goal and an assist to help the Gunners secure a stunning comeback victory over the Cherries, despite only coming on for the final 20 minutes.

He is yet to start a game for Arteta’s title-chasing side this season but has still notched an impressive three goals and two assists in four games.

Nelson is well behind Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli, Bukayo Saka, Eddie Nketiah and Leandro Trossard in the pecking order.

While his playing time has been nothing to write home about this season, Arsenal are still keen on keeping the youngster who progressed through their academy.

Nelson is also reportedly open to staying in north London after proving he can be a strong option for Arteta off the bench and when injuries have struck.

The Spanish manager will need all the help he can get as his relentless team continues to rally towards a first Premier League triumph in nearly a decade.

Back-to-back 4-1 victories over Crystal Palace and Leeds United saw the Gunners maintain their eight points lead over Manchester City at the top of the table, having played one game more.

With just nine games left to play, Arsenal will do well to avoid complacency and see the challenge through to the end, especially without the burden of European football swaying their attention.