Reiss Nelson
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal have confirmed that winger Reiss Nelson has joinedBrentford on a season-long loan for the 2025/26 campaign. The deal, finalised on transfer deadline day, gives the 25-year-old academy graduate a chance to secure regular first-team football after struggling for minutes under Mikel Arteta.
The move does not include an option to buy, signalling Arsenal’s intention to reassess Nelson’s future next summer. The winger, who has two years left on his contract, has made 90 senior appearances for the Gunners since his debut in 2017, contributing eight goals and nine assists.
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Nelson, renowned for his pace and direct attacking style, spent last season on loan at Fulham, where he scored four goals in 22 league outings. Despite interest from Fulham, Villarreal, and West Ham United, Brentford won the race for his signature, with manager Keith Andrews keen to add depth and dynamism to his squad.
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Reiss Luke Nelson pic.twitter.com/4FyJiPXFON
— Brentford FC (@BrentfordFC) September 1, 2025
Competition for attacking places at Arsenal has intensified following the arrivals of Noni Madueke and Eberechi Eze this summer, limiting Nelson’s opportunities. At Brentford, his versatility to operate on either flank is expected to provide a significant boost as the Bees aim to build on their mid-table finish in 2024/25.
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The move is also a homecoming of sorts for Nelson, who was born in Elephant and Castle and recently spent time in west London with Fulham. Brentford believe his Premier League experience, which includes Champions League appearances with Arsenal, will add quality and maturity to their attacking options.
Nelson’s departure was part of a busy deadline day for Arsenal, who finalised several outgoings to streamline their squad and remain compliant with UEFA’s financial regulations. The winger could make his Brentford debut against Leicester City after the international break.
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