Valencia revive Nelson option as free-agent route opens | OneFootball

According to La Colina De Nervion, Valencia have revived the Nelson option after his Arsenal exit left him a free agent, with the club seeking attacking reinforcements before the window shuts.

On 21 July, when his name first appeared on their list, he remained under contract and Benfica were also keen. Valencia can now negotiate directly with the winger.

Reiss Nelson departs London after 18 years at Arsenal, progressing from academy to first team and recording 90 appearances, eight goals and nine assists. He was entering the final year of his deal and, after agreeing to leave, can choose his next club. His departure removes a transfer fee, though wages and contract terms would still need covering.

The timing underlines Valencia’s need. On 21 August Carlos Corberán said the squad was still incomplete and identified the forward line as the priority. The team have played 180 LaLiga minutes without a goal, and Ron Gourlay heads into the final days of the window tasked with strengthening.

Recent form offers a cautionary note. On loan at Brentford in 2025-26 he featured in 10 Premier League matches, all as a substitute, with no goals and one assist. His career also includes spells with Hoffenheim, Feyenoord and Fulham.

Comfortable on either flank, he fits the positions Corberán wants addressed before the deadline. The player had shown willingness to consider a move outside England, keeping a LaLiga switch on the table. For a Mestalla move to happen, Valencia must act within five days and their proposal must convince him.

Source: La Colina De Nervion

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