Brighton 'keep tabs' on Arsenal attacker whose sale could fund mega move for Dutch international

Arsenal’s Premier League rivals Brighton are reportedly keeping tabs on out-of-favour winger Reiss Nelson as they look to bolster their team for next season.

Nelson is a product of the Gunners academy and a player that has long been touted as one for the future. The winger signed his first professional contract when he was just 17 years-old and has represented England at every age group from U16 to U21.

Despite impressive loan spells at both TSG Hoffenheim in the Bundesliga and Feyenoord in the Eredivisie, Nelson has struggled to ever establish himself as a regular first team fixture for the Gunners. Overall, he has made 48 Premier League appearances and has managed four goals and two assists.

However, Football Insider claims that the Seagulls are big admirers of Nelson and believe that he could thrive in an inverted-winger role similar to the one played by Karou Mitoma. Arsenal are hopeful that Nelson can fetch a fee of around £25-£30 m if he does leave this summer and it is likely that Mikel Arteta’s men will use those funds to help bolster their wide options.

Borussia Dortmund star Donyell Malen is believed to be the man at the top of Arsenal’s list of potential targets and reports from Sports Bild believe that the Gunners are huge fans of the winger who is renowned for his electric pace. Arsenal, Manchester United and Liverpool are all keeping tabs on the Netherlands international, who is capable of playing as both a winger and as a centre forward. 

Malen showcased his talents with two devastating performances against Newcastle in the Champions League group stage, and has been an important part of the team which has reached the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

Likewise, his form in the Bundesliga has hit new heights and he has so far managed an impressive 11 goals from 23 games - which is just eight short of his career best of 18 goals from 32 for PSV during an earlier spell in Holland.

Malen is renowned for his excellent work rate and his ability to beat defenders with ease. Former Ajax youth coach Brian Tevreden has previously compared his style of play to that of Alexis Sanchez, who was once a fan favourite at the Emirates Stadium.