Reiss Nelson seals Arsenal transfer exit after Andrea Berta already has eye on next year

Reiss Nelson has joined Brentford on loan from Arsenal with an option to buy (Image: David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

Interest had been shown from other London-based clubs Fulham and Crystal Palace; however, Brentford moved late and quickly concluded the deal with all parties. Nelson still has two years left on his Arsenal deal, but should he impress at the Gtech Community Stadium, the Bees might choose to make the deal permanent.

Persistent injuries have been the biggest obstacle to Nelson's career in his early to mid-20s. He underwent surgery while on loan with Fulham during the previous season, which cut short what was looking like a promising spell with Marco Silva’s side.

The Portuguese coach was very fond of Nelson and had been a key driver behind their interest. But instead, Nelson will help Keith Andrews cope with the exodus of talent from Brentford.

Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa have both left the club, moving to Manchester United and Newcastle United respectively. The Bees have secured the signings of Dango Ouatarra, Antoni Milambo, and Romelle Donavan, but so far, they have a negative goal difference and two defeats in their opening three games.

The loss of Thomas Frank to Tottenham in addition to the players who have left has made them one of the candidates for relegation. Nelson and his fellow summer signees will hope to change that.

The 25-year-old could make his debut for Brentford when they return after the international break. A home match against Chelsea is up first as they try to arrest this early-season slide.