Arsenal open talks with Reiss Nelson over new deal after Bournemouth winner

Arsenal are in talks with Saturday’s match-winning hero Reiss Nelson over a new contract.

Nelson’s future is uncertain as his current contract expires at the end of the season.

But discussions about an extension are underway, with the growing hope that the intention of all parties is to reach an agreement for Nelson to stay.

Arsenal are confident that the winger wants to remain in north London, raising hopes that a positive resolution can be found.

Nelson scored a euphoric winner in the seventh minute of added time as the Gunners came from 2-0 down to beat Bournemouth 3-2 at the weekend to maintain their five-point lead at the top of the table.

Nelson has been used sparingly this season, but he did score a crucial goal against Bournemouth.

His stoppage-time goal sparked wild celebrations and kept the Gunners five points ahead.

There is hope in the club, the intention of all parties is to reach an agreement so that Nelson stays.

The goal brought Nelson’s future back into the spotlight with a number of clubs known to be keeping an eye on the attacker with a view to signing him on a free transfer before next season.

Nelson scored twice in the Gunners’ 5-0 win over Nottingham Forest in October, raising hopes he could play more regularly under Mikel Arteta.

However, his progress was hampered by a thigh injury, and Nelson’s winning cameo appearance on Saturday was the player’s first appearance of 2023.

The 23-year-old came through the ranks at Arsenal before making his first-team debut in 2017, but has only made nine Premier League appearances.

While Arteta is recognized as building something special at the Emirates, the amount of first-team football Nelson is likely to receive is also preparing to be a factor in the talks.