Arsenal ‘hijack’ Postecoglou’s first Tottenham signing Nelsson

Arsenal are looking to hijack Tottenham’s approach for Galatasaray defender Victor Nelsson, according to reports. Spurs were thought to be the favourites to secure the £21.5million-rated centre-back’s signature, however, Arsenal are also keen on snapping him up as fears grow over 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.

‌But according to the Daily Star, the Gunners are now in hot pursuit of the Denmark international as well and are hoping to tempt him away from their fierce rivals. Nelsson is understood to have a £22m release clause in his contract and Arsenal are considering matching it. 

‌The 24-year-old is a right-footed centre-back so would likely be brought in to provide cover for Saliba, who spent a decent portion of the back end of the season sidelined by injury. However, he may also end up starting if the Frenchman doesn’t renew his contract at Arsenal.‌

Arsenal remain confident that they will be able to tie down their man on a long-term deal but interest from PSG has complicated matters. It has upped the pressure on the Gunners’ board to find an agreement.

Saliba has one year remaining on his current deal and has been in drawn-out negotiations with Arsenal executives since the start of the season.

Nelsson played 30 times for Galatasaray last season in all competitions and is a regular starter for his country. He is under contract with the Turkish Super League side until 2026 but they are willing to let him go if the price is right. 

He is noted for his physicality, aerial threat and ability to pull off last-ditch game-saving challenges. Unlike Saliba, he also has a flawless injury record having been fit and available for every game since missing two for FC Copenhagen back in November 2020 due to COVID-19.

Providing Saliba stays Nelsson is expected to come in as a direct replacement for Rob Holding, who is expected to be moved on in the summer after a dismal 2022/2023 campaign.