Benfica target Arsenal winger Reiss Nelson as summer transfer nears

Benfica are reportedly among the clubs interested in signing Arsenal winger Reiss Nelson, with the Portuguese giants exploring a move as the 26-year-old enters the final year of his contract.

The England-born wide player is attracting attention from across Europe, with Valencia also monitoring his situation after Arsenal signalled they are prepared to facilitate a transfer this summer.

Having already rejected approaches from Premier League clubs, Nelson is understood to be open to continuing his career abroad.

Benfica remain in the market for a new winger and have identified Nelson as a potential addition.

The Arsenal academy graduate is capable of playing on either flank, making him an attractive option for the Portuguese club as they continue to strengthen their attacking options.

With just one year remaining on his contract, Nelson represents a potentially affordable opportunity in the current transfer market.

Although Nelson has returned for pre-season training with Arsenal, the club are reportedly prepared to allow him to leave before the transfer window closes.

The winger spent last season on loan at Brentford, where he made 14 appearances, scoring one goal and providing two assists.

His contract expires at the end of the 2026/27 campaign, increasing the likelihood of Arsenal cashing in rather than risking losing him on a free transfer next year.

Reports suggest Nelson is receptive to leaving both Arsenal and the Premier League.

The winger has already turned down several offers from English clubs and is believed to favour a move overseas as he looks for regular first-team football.

Benfica and Valencia are currently among the clubs closely following his situation.

A move to Benfica could also see Nelson reunited with Marco Silva, who managed the winger during a previous loan spell at Fulham.

During that campaign, Nelson made 12 appearances, scoring two goals and contributing one assist under the Portuguese coach.

That existing relationship could work in Benfica's favour should negotiations with Arsenal progress.

Benfica are expected to continue assessing Nelson's availability before deciding whether to make a formal approach. With Arsenal prepared to sell and the winger keen on a fresh challenge abroad, talks could accelerate before the transfer window closes.