Alex Iwobi has already warned Mikel Arteta he can’t sell Arsenal ace who’s ‘a joke in training’

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Arsenal could be set to sell a number of players before the transfer deadline on Friday, in a summer which has seen several stars leave.

Eddie Nketiah is set to follow Emile Smith Rowe out of the club as he closes in on a move to Crystal Palace, but the sales of both Hale End graduates will bring a lot of financial benefit.

A fellow academy graduate in Reiss Nelson has now been linked with a move to Fulham, but with no attacker arriving yet, Arsenal might now be reluctant to let him leave unless they can find a replacement.

Nelson started just one Premier League game last season after signing a new deal at the club, and is often overlooked as a substitute despite previously showcasing his talent in some outstanding cameos.

One of his former teammates Alex Iwobi, who also came through the academy before ending up at Fulham with Smith Rowe and potentially Nelson, previously highlighted what makes the winger so special, and Mikel Arteta must take note.

• READ MORE: Every Arsenal academy player to make their senior debuts under Mikel Arteta

Former Arsenal star Alex Iwobi praised Reiss Nelson

Speaking to The Beautiful Game Podcast in April 2023, Iwobi highlighted Nelson’s quality off the bench and in training, and pointed out how Arsenal can make good use out of him.

“[Nelson] was a joke in training, he used to do bare tricks,” Iwobi said. “He’s another one that has that raw street ability,” he stated.

“I have to give it to him, someone that’s been patient. Every time he’s come on to play, he’s delivered. I think he’s been the most impactful sub this season.

“For someone to be able to do that and you’re not playing regularly, to have that elite mindset to know that you’re going into a game and I’m gonna do my thing and make sure I help the team win, I have to rate it.”

Arsenal must use Reiss Nelson more if he stays

Arsenal fans have been crying out for a winger who can add speed to the attack, who can also play on both wings.

Nelson is an exact fit for this profile, but he simply has not been given enough of a chance. Any player would struggle to show their best form when only given intermittent substitute appearances.

If Nelson leaves, Arsenal would have to sign a replacement, but if they cannot find a suitable option, then he can be the internal solution.

If Arsenal allow Nelson to leave and he thrives as a winger elsewhere, they may regret not giving him more opportunities, but if they do not intend to use him more, then he should be allowed to leave.