Reiss Nelson and Arsenal Part Ways by Mutual Agreement

Arsenal have confirmed that Reiss Nelson is no longer with the club following a mutual agreement to end his contract. The 26-year-old winger, who rose through Arsenal's Hale End academy, is now a free agent as he looks for a new club after a loan spell at Brentford.

A Fresh Start for Nelson

The split comes at a key moment in Nelson's career, as he searches for more regular playing time than what was available under Mikel Arteta at the Emirates Stadium. Though he was set to enter the final year of his deal—with an option for the club to extend for another 12 months—Arsenal chose to release him now to allow a smoother transition.

Several clubs in England’s top division and overseas are reportedly interested in signing Nelson. West Ham United has already held talks about a possible transfer, but Nelson plans to carefully evaluate all his options before making a decision.

Challenges on the Field

During the 2025-26 season, Nelson spent time on loan at Brentford. Unfortunately, injuries and limited chances affected his impact, with just 13 appearances across all competitions and only three starts, all in domestic cup matches.

Before Brentford, Nelson was loaned to Fulham for the 2024-25 season. His stint there was cut short in December 2024 due to a major hamstring injury.

From Academy Prospect to First Team Contributor

Nelson’s connection with Arsenal began in their academy where he was seen as one of the most promising young players. He signed his first professional contract in December 2016 and made his senior debut in August 2017 during the Community Shield against Chelsea.

After inconsistent first-team opportunities, he went on loan to German club Hoffenheim in 2018-19, scoring three goals in 22 games. Limited chances back at Arsenal led to another loan to Dutch side Feyenoord in 2021, where he helped reach the Europa Conference League final. Returning to Arsenal, his value as an impactful substitute earned him a new deal in 2023.

Legacy at Arsenal

Nelson leaves having played exactly 90 games for Arsenal, tallying eight goals and nine assists. Though he never reached the superstar status many expected, moments like his dramatic 97th-minute winner against Bournemouth in 2023 will keep him in the hearts of supporters.

• Player: Reiss Nelson
• Age: 26
• Appearances for Arsenal: 90
• Goals for Arsenal: 8
• Assists for Arsenal: 9
• Recent Loans: Brentford (2025-26), Fulham (2024-25)
• Notable Loan Clubs: Hoffenheim, Feyenoord