West Ham have tabled an offer in the region of £15m for Arsenal winger Reiss Nelson, according to The Sunday Mirror (via West Ham Zone).
The tabloid claims that the Hammers are keen on securing the 24-year-old’s services but they will face major competition from Leicester City.
It is believed that the Foxes have also held conversations with Arsenal about signing Nelson on an initial loan deal, with an obligation to buy next summer.
They believe they have a trump card in manager Steve Cooper, who coached the winger when he was England’s Under 17 boss. That strong relationship could prove crucial in negotiations.
Another Premier League team could enter the battle for Nelson
The Sunday Mirror also reports that Fulham are “keen” on recruiting the player, but it doesn’t look like they have made any concrete attempts to sign him yet.
The Cottagers are currently focused on recruiting Nelson’s teammate, Emile Smith Rowe. The midfielder is expected to complete his switch across London for £35m.
Nelson is likely to be slightly cheaper, with respected sources claiming that Arsenal want £20m (including add-ons). It is not known whether West Ham’s offer has been rejected or not.
Are West Ham looking at other wingers?
The Irons have also considered making an offer for Leeds’ Crysencio Summerville but the Dutchman is valued in excess of £30m, so Nelson would be a much cheaper alternative.
Deals for Vitoria Guimaraes’ Jota Silva and Corinthians’ Wesley Gassova have been looked at too, and a lot depends on how much technical director Tim Steidten and the club are willing to spend to strengthen the left flank.
Manager Julen Lopetegui currently has limited options on that side of the pitch, with Maxwel Cornet the only natural left winger in the squad.
