West Ham United may have just endured a relatively quiet January transfer window, but they could already be plotting for another big summer…
When was Nelson linked with West Ham?
That’s according to journalist Steve Kay, who added some specifics to Fabrizio Romano’s claim that two Premier League clubs are considering an end-of-contract move for Arsenal‘s Reiss Nelson.
Kay wrote on Twitter: “West Ham are interested in signing Arsenal winger Reiss Nelson in the upcoming summer transfer window”.
This news emerged late last week and could see Mark Noble secure the Irons’ next iteration of Jarrod Bowen, as Nelson’s £15k-per-week deal at the Emirates Stadium draws to a close in June.
How can Nelson be the next Bowen?
Both Nelson and former Hull City winger Bowen share striking similarities, although the latter has been afforded far more freedom and game-time to flourish whilst the former has struggled behind numerous options at Arsenal.
With Leandro Trossard the latest attacking addition at the Emirates, any chances of a career revival for the 23-year-old at the club are likely scuppered.
Should West Ham sign Nelson?
Yes
No
A move to east London could see him reignite a career which once promised so much, with the hope that he can emulate the development of Bowen into one of the Premier League’s most feared wingers.
Last season saw the 26-year-old score 18 goals and set up a further 13 in all competitions, using his dynamism and skill to terrorise defenders and score with his wicked left foot.
Should he sign for West Ham as well, Nelson could operate on the opposite flank as a mirrored alternative to their leading marksman.
Despite seeing his chances limited once again this term, the Gunners dynamo took his chance when he was handed it. His brace against Nottingham Forest in October captured the imagination, and he has four goal contributions in just seven short appearances this season.
Forest manager Steve Cooper was quick to sing Nelson’s praises following that match, saying: “[Reiss Nelson] and I always had a strong relationship. He was a standout player for England U17s. It’s good to see him doing well, I just wish it wasn’t today.”
Clearly boasting vast untapped talent, alleviating that pressure by moving to a smaller club could be imperative in the 23-year-old’s growth. He again offered glimpses of that whilst on loan at Feyenoord last season, where he recorded 11 goal contributions in the Netherlands.
His contributions compared to his playing time might inflate his metrics somewhat, but when compared to other wingers across Europe’s major leagues, he is up there with the best. Over the past year, he ranks in the top 2% for assists, the top 5% for progressive carries and successful take-ons, and the top 2% for tackles (via FBref).
To add such an offensively outstanding asset to David Moyes‘ squad, who also boasts the work rate to match, could be a stroke of genius by West Ham if they bring him from N5 to E20. It would benefit all parties involved, as Bowen could help to shape the Arsenal youngster in his image.
