Arsenal star Reiss Nelson wanted by Brighton and Nice on free transfers with winger at ‘crossroads’ as deal runs down

ARSENAL forward Reiss Nelson is reportedly attracting interest from Brighton and Nice.

The Gunners star, 23, scored a sensational stoppage-time winner for Mikel Arteta's men on Saturday as they dramatically clinched a 3-2 win over Bournemouth.

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Nelson's crucial moment ensured Arsenal retain their five-point lead at the top of the Premier League table with 12 games remaining.

Yet despite a potentially season-defining moment, his contract is continuing to run down at the Emirates.

If Nelson does not pen a new deal, he will become a free agent in the summer.

And an exit from the club he has been with for 14 years looked more likely than ever when he was left out of the squad for the wins over Everton and Leicester.

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According to , both Brighton and Ligue 1 side Nice are interested in signing him if he becomes a free agent at the end of the season.

However, injuries to Leandro Trossard, Eddie Nketiah and Gabriel Jesus are set to give him a much-needed opportunity, so his future remains in the balance.

Speaking after Nelson's goal on Saturday, Arteta said: "I always saw the potential, the talent and the desire for him to do it, but I think he's at a different level right now.

"I think emotionally, the experiences he's had has helped him.

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"Football-wise, it was my decision not to put him in the squad in the last two games because we had other options. 

"He's knocking on the door. He's been training really well and it's a good lesson for me and the coaches that we need him and that he can really be important in the team." 

Nelson has contributed seven goals and seven assists in 56 appearances for the club.

And back in November he insisted he wants to stay in North London.

He told : "I am an Arsenal fan and, of course, I want to sign a new contract at the club.

"I am just going to be ready for anything I get now and give my all for the team."