Reiss Nelson contract snub could trigger transfer domino effect that sees Liverpool land Rafael Leao

Reiss Nelson’s decision to turn down a new Arsenal contract could trigger a transfer domino effect that would see Liverpool land one of the best attackers in Europe.

Nelson has reportedly turned down a contract expansion at Arsenal and could leave the club at the end of the season for free.

The north Londoners were trying to tie down the Hale End graduate to a new deal, despite the winger not starting a Premier League encounter since 2019.

Yet on Friday transfer guru Fabrizio Romano tweeted: “Reiss Nelson has rejected the first new contract proposal made by Arsenal — but negotiations remain ongoing as the final decision will be made at the end of the season.

“Nelson has been approached by many clubs in England and also from abroad over [a] potential free transfer.”

Nelson is reportedly being monitored by several clubs, with Brighton among the reported suitors. Meanwhile, The Mail Online claim Serie A giants AC Milan are also monitoring the situation.

Transfer domino effect?

Should Nelson move to Milan in the summer it could pave the way for Rafael Leão to move clubs.

Leao is one of the most sought-after attackers in world football and has been linked to a whole host of Premier League clubs in recent months, including Liverpool.

The Portugal international, who has registered 13 goals and 13 assists in all competitions this term, was described by ESPN’s Luis Miguel Echegaray as “unbelievable” and the “football version of [Super] Mario when he picks up a star.”

While there is talk Leao is looking to extend his contract with the Serie A giants he has also opened the door for a Premier League transfer in future.

Speaking to RDP Africa via SportsMole earlier this year about the prospect of playing in England, Leao said: "Yes, in the future, but now I'm 100% focused on Milan. I'm at a top club and I'm under contract. I also like the city of Milan."

Speaking in an interview with Kick Game, however, Leao added: "I don't like the weather there. I went shopping the first time I went to London. [In Milan I like] the Duomo (barbershop), shopping malls, nightclubs and the food."

Topics: Football, Arsenal, Liverpool, AC Milan, Premier League, Transfers

Chris Byfield

Sport journalist with experience writing on football, rugby, boxing and the Olympics. I'm also a Crystal Palace fan. Please don't hold this against me.