Brentford have moved swiftly to replace Yoane Wissa, agreeing a deal with Arsenal for Reiss Nelson on a season-long loan. According to Fabrizio Romano, Nelson turned down approaches from other Premier League clubs and teams in Europe in order to link up with Keith Andrews’s side.
The 25-year-old winger is on his way for a medical and is expected to be announced before the deadline closes. Nelson spent last season on loan at Fulham, where he made 13 appearances, scoring twice and assisting once.
Why Brentford Want Nelson
After Wissa’s £55m move to Newcastle, Brentford urgently needed wide attacking reinforcements. Nelson brings Premier League experience, technical quality, and the ability to operate on either Andrews — giving Frank tactical flexibility.
“Reiss Nelson to Brentford, here we go! Loan deal agreed with Arsenal, medical to follow. Player turned down other Premier League and European clubs.” — Fabrizio Romano
The Bees are also targeting midfielder Joey Veerman, but Nelson’s arrival ensures they don’t head into the new season short of pace and creativity out wide.
Player Terms and Wages
At Arsenal, Nelson is reported to be on around £100,000 per week following the new contract he signed in 2023. Brentford are understood to be covering the majority of those wages, in the region of £70,000–£75,000 per week, with Arsenal subsidising the rest.
The loan does not currently include an obligation to buy, but Brentford are expected to negotiate an option to extend depending on performance.
Reiss Nelson — 2024/25 Loan Season at Fulham
| Stat (2024/25) | Reiss Nelson |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 13 |
| Goals | 2 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Chances Created | 11 |
| Successful Dribbles | 51% |
| Average Rating | 6.7 |
source: sofascore season data – 2024/25
Although his output at Fulham was modest, Nelson’s ability to beat defenders and stretch defences makes him a useful squad option. Brentford see him as a winger who can be developed with consistent game time.
Analyst Verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William said:
“This is a clever piece of business from Brentford. Nelson has been on the fringes at Arsenal, but his pace and technical quality fit perfectly into Brentford’s attacking style. Covering around £70k a week is a gamble, but cheaper than sourcing a permanent winger late in the window.”
He added:
“Replacing Wissa’s 20 goals won’t be easy, but Nelson brings a point to prove. Sometimes players in his situation explode when given a run of games — Brentford will hope that’s the case here.”
Key Insights
- Brentford agree loan for Arsenal’s Reiss Nelson.
- Nelson rejected other Premier League and European clubs.
- Winger played 13 games for Fulham last season, 2 goals and 1 assist.
- Brentford covering ~£70k of his £100k weekly wage.
- Bees also still pursuing midfielder Joey Veerman.
What’s Next?
Nelson will undergo his medical and sign the loan paperwork later today. If finalised in time, he could debut after the international break.
Brentford remain active in the market as they look to add one more midfielder before the window closes, but Nelson’s arrival gives Keith Andrews an immediate attacking option to ease the blow of losing Wissa.
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 1 Sep 2025 12:12
Good signing from Brentford! If he stays fit he can be a good fit for Brentford and Keith
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