Reports suggest that Gunners are attempting to disrupt Tottenham’s pursuit of Galatasaray defender Victor Nelsson. While Spurs were initially in consideration the frontrunners to sign the £21.5 million-rated center-back. Arsenal has shown interest in securing his services due to growing concerns about William Saliba’s future.
Tottenham had an £11m bid rejected by the Turkish giants before Agne Postecoglou’s recent appointment yet the club retains an interest. In acquiring the player’s services after beating off competition from the likes of Brighton, Burnley and Wolves
According to the Daily Star, Arsenal is actively pursuing Victor Nelsson, the Danish international, and hopes to lure him away from their arch-rivals Tottenham. Nelsson, who is a 24-year-old right-footed center-back. Has a reported release clause of £22 million in his contract, which Arsenal is considering matching. The Gunners view him as a potential option to provide cover for William Saliba. Who faced injury setbacks towards the end of the previous season. In the event that Saliba does not renew his contract with Arsenal. Nelsson may even secure a starting role for the team.
Gunners gunning their targets
Despite facing complications due to interest from PSG, Arsenal remains optimistic about securing Victor Nelsson on a long-term contract. The emergence of PSG as a potential suitor has increased the pressure on Arsenal’s board to reach an agreement. Meanwhile, William Saliba, who has one year left on his current contract. He has been in prolonged negotiations with Arsenal executives since the beginning of the season.
Nelsson has been a key player for Galatasaray, featuring in 30 matches across various competitions last season. He is also a regular starter for his national team. While he is currently in a contract with Galatasaray until 2026. The club may be open to letting him go if the right offer comes along.
One of Nelsson’s notable strengths is his physicality, which contributes to his aerial threat and ability to make crucial last-minute defensive interventions. Unlike Saliba, he has a clean bill of health, having remained fit and available for every match since recovering from a two-game absence due to COVID-19 while playing for FC Copenhagen in November 2020.
If William Saliba remains at Arsenal, Nelsson is expected to join as a direct replacement for Rob Holding. Who is likely to be off in the summer transfer window following a disappointing 2022/2023 season.
