Ivan Fresneda, the 18-year-old Spanish defender who currently plays for Real Valladolid in La Liga, is reportedly looking for a new challenge in the upcoming summer transfer window, according to Fabrizio Romano. The talented youngster has been attracting interest from several top European clubs, including Arsenal and Borussia Dortmund.
Ivan Fresneda on the Radar of Arsenal and Borussia Dortmund
Arsenal and Borussia Dortmund are still in the race for Ivan Fresneda but other clubs will be there too as he wants a new challenge this summer [@FabrizioRomano via @caughtoffside]
— Transfer Centre (@CentreTransfer) March 29, 2023
Ivan Fresneda’s Impressive Debut Season
Fresneda made his professional debut for La Pucela in January 2022, starting in a Copa del Rey match against Real Betis, aged just 17. He went on to make his league debut in September 2022 and has since become a regular member of the first-team squad.
Read More: Premier League Clubs on Alert as Spanish Star’s Contract Talks With La Liga Giants in Limbo
Despite his young age, the right-back has shown a remarkable level of maturity and skill on the pitch, impressing fans and pundits alike with his performances, prompting Arsenal legend, Emmanuel Petit, to describe the defender as “powerful” with “good technique” – high praise from such a revered ex-player.
Right-Back Options at Arsenal and Dortmund
The Gunners are looking at the Spaniard to increase their squad depth ahead of the next season. While Ben White has performed remarkably well for the North London side, he is a centre-back by trade, and Mikel Arteta would be happy to have an offensive-minded right-back in his squad. Takehiro Tomiyasu has undergone a knee surgery which will keep him out of action for a few months, further emphasizing the need for reinforcements in his position.
Read More: Arsenal Star ‘Desperate’ and ‘Ready to Perform’ After Recovery From Long-Term Injury
German outfit Dortmund on the other hand are in need of a quality full-back to replace injury-prone Belgian international, Thomas Meunier. Manager Edin Terzic has also resorted to using January signing Julian Ryerson on the opposite flank as a left-back.
Stiff Competition for the Youngster
Romano adds that a host of other clubs are also vying for the 18-year-old’s signature and that a transfer race could ensue in the summer. Valladolid have reportedly placed a £ 26.5 million release clause in his contract and could spark a bidding war to get closer to that amount in the summer.
Read More: Romano: Arsenal Have Appreciated PSG and Newcastle Target Who Could Be on the Move in the Summer
Fresneda revealed in a recent interview that he is proud of the interest other clubs are taking in him. He said: “I’m proud, but I always say it: I’m also at a big club, Valladolid.” At the moment, the young full-back is focused on the Spanish club, but where he ends up in the future remains to be seen.
