Reiss Nelson tipped to reunite with former coach as Zinchenko stakes his claim amid Calafiori battle

Add as preferred source on Google

A round-up of Arsenal news including the latest on Reiss Nelson’s future, Zinchenko speaking out about Calafiori competition

With the first game of the pre-season tour in the US now under our belts, excitement for the new season is heating up.

READ MORE: Every player linked to and from Arsenal in the summer 2024 transfer window

Newly-promoted Leicester City ‘confident’ of signing Reiss Nelson

Arsenal are willing to let Reiss Nelson leave the Emirates Stadium this summer after a frustrating crack at the whip last season.

After his exploits against Bournemouth and the signing of a new contract, many expected the right winger to push his way into Mikel Arteta’s plans, but it hasn’t panned out.

West Ham looked to be leading the race for Nelson, but their interest doesn’t seem to have advanced at the current stage with no offer made.

It has now emerged that last year’s Championship winners Leicester City are vying for the 24-year-old’s signature.

However, the deal being mooted has divided Arsenal fans.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, reporting on X: “Leicester City open talks with Arsenal for Reiss Nelson. Loan deal with obligation to buy, in talks over financial terms with Arsenal.

“Leicester, confident they can persuade Nelson if the clubs come to terms as he previously worked with Steve Cooper.”

Cooper has worked with Nelson while the winger was shining through the England youth ranks, so it’s definitely a likely move for the Hale End graduate.

Read more on Reiss Nelson’s potential move to Leicester City here.

Zinchenko speaks out with Calafiori signing close

Arsenal are close to signing Riccardo Calafiori, who is expected to feature most prominently at left-back when his signing is finally announced.

The saga has been a long one since terms were agreed with the Italian defender, but after transfer expert David Ornstein’s update on X yesterday, it is only a matter of time.

“All agreements now in place for Riccardo Calafiori to join Arsenal from Bologna. 22-year-old defender still needs to do medical and sign, but deal essentially done. If everything goes to plan, aim is for Italy international to link up with Arsenal on USA tour,” he said.

Along with the return of Jurrien Timber, that leaves the left-back spot quite crowded, leaving the futures of Oleksandr Zinchenko and Jakub Kiwior in doubt.

Bayern Munich had been linked with acquiring the services of Zinchenko, but he is now ready to fight for his place.

Speaking to Hayters TV, the former Manchester City man said: “Well, wherever the manager is going to use me in the club, I will be happy to give my best and to do my all. Of course, it will be amazing competition… That’s what you need, you know, in the team who wants to achieve a lot of things, to win a lot of titles. You need to have this competition.”

Read more on Zinchenko’s chances amid Calafiori’s arrival here.

Eddie Nketiah’s message to Hale End youngsters on pre-season tour

In recent days, Eddie Nketiah has been heavily linked with a move to French outfit Marseille – to replace the outgoing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang who is set to be playing his football in the Saudi Pro League with Al Qadsiah.

Nketiah is still very much part of the pre-season squad and will see plenty of action given the Euro 2024 absentees across the front line.

Coming through the ranks at Arsenal, the striker knows what it takes to make the step to the first team.

The likes of Ethan Nwaneri and Ayden Heaven look set to make the most of their chances this summer and Nketiah sent them a message.

Speaking to the club’s official website, the 25-year-old said: “Pre-season is really good for a lot of the lads who haven’t trained or played with us that much to show what they can do. It gives people opportunities to show themselves and get fit, so hopefully they can take them.

“It’s a platform, even for us now, to make our mark and start playing games regularly and get fit. I think there are a lot of examples of players who did well in pre-season and gone on to play and have minutes in the first team, so it’s a really good chance.

“I know what it’s like for the young kids coming through so I’m just trying to make them feel as comfortable as possible. We have a really good group of guys, everyone is really nice and welcoming and tries to make everyone feel good.”

Read more on Eddie Nketiah’s message and potential exit here.