West Ham United have reportedly pulled back from a proposed move for Reiss Nelson after concerns over the Arsenal winger’s injury record prompted a dramatic change of direction.
The development comes less than 24 hours after ReadWestHam reported that talks were moving towards a permanent transfer, having initially centred on a possible loan.
West Ham were previously described as being close to an agreement, but the situation now appears to have changed considerably.
West Ham back away from Reiss Nelson transfer
Claret & Hugh now reports that West Ham have backed away from the deal despite terms between the clubs having been agreed.
A transfer source told the outlet that West Ham had developed concerns over Nelson’s fitness history and decided not to proceed with the move. The report claims those injury concerns were the main reason behind the late change of heart.
It represents a remarkable turnaround.
Claret & Hugh had reported only two days earlier that the proposed transfer was “90% done”, although the same source warned at the time that Nelson’s medical could prove problematic.
Nelson has struggled for consistent availability during his Arsenal career and has spent the last two seasons away from the Emirates on loan.
West Ham still want another wide attacker to provide competition following Manor Solomon’s arrival, leaving recruitment director Nils Koppen with another decision to make.
Edvin Austbø remains one player on the club’s radar after the Hammers saw an opening offer rejected by Viking.
For now, though, the Nelson deal appears to have gone from close to completion to potentially off the table entirely.
