Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola has made direct contact with Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta to discuss a potential move for winger Reiss Nelson, FootballTransfers understands.
The 25-year-old has returned to Arsenal after a mixed loan at Fulham, which ended due to a hamstring injury. With the transfer window open, Nelson is attracting fresh interest, and Bournemouth are now pushing the hardest, we are told.
Sources confirm that Iraola personally reached out to Arteta, reinforcing Bournemouth’s approach in the process. The two managers, who have known each other since childhood, maintain a close relationship, and the conversation has been described as constructive.
The pair also had a discussion about Oleksandr Zinchenko earlier in the summer. However, the Cherries ultimately opted to sign Adrien Truffert for €13.5 million after Arsenal informed them that it would require well over €20m to sign the Ukraine international.
Bournemouth are preparing for the potential departure of Antoine Semenyo, which would create a gap out wide. Nelson is viewed as a natural replacement – quick, technical, and Premier League-ready.
Arsenal open to Nelson offers
Nelson is under contract until 2027, but Arsenal are open to offers. Despite Arteta being a fan, competition for minutes is fierce, and the homegrown wants regular football.
Fulham are also monitoring the situation after last season’s loan, but Bournemouth are currently the favourites, thanks to Iraola’s direct involvement and a playing style that suits Nelson.
The former England U21 international was restricted to just 12 appearances for Fulham last season, in which he contributed two goals and an assist.
At present, Nelson is still working his way back to full fitness. A final decision on any move could hinge on pre-season form, but Bournemouth are ready to act fast if he proves he’s ready.
With Semenyo potentially leaving and Iraola personally leading the chase, Bournemouth are well-placed to land Nelson.
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