Arsenal youngster Reiss Nelson is reportedly close to signing a new contract with the club.

The 18-year-old, who made his Premier League debut during Sunday's 3-2 win against Southampton, is a key part of the Gunners' long-term plans, according to The Telegraph.

Nelson has made 15 appearances for Arsenal this term, most of which have come in the Europa League, and has been on the club's books since he was seven years old.

"I think a first-team start in the Premier League at a high level like this is a step forward. The Premier League is so much faster. You have to play everything a bit quicker, one and two-touch. We had to do that and I enjoyed that," the starlet is quoted as saying.

"A Premier League start was on the cards but I think I need to score, that is the only one I haven't achieved so fingers crossed I can get a cheeky goal before the end of the season."

Nelson signed his first professional contract with Arsenal two years ago.