Real Valladolid want at least €30 million for Ivan Fresneda after managing to hold on to the right-back in January amid heavy interest.
According to Fichajes, Ivan Fresneda could leave Real Valladolid if suitors pay €30 million. Arsenal were among the teams who came close to signing the right back, and they are likely to revisit their interest when the summer window opens.
Mikel Arteta had set his sights on Ivan Fresneda as Arsenal came close to signing the 18-year-old defensive prodigy. Real Valladolid fought hard to keep the right-back and even requested a few suitors to allow them to retain him until the end of the season.
Arsenal were reportedly willing to pay somewhere between €15-20 million in January, but now his price may have increased. While Valladolid know they cannot get the total value of his hefty release clause, they could settle for €30 million from suitors.
Newcastle United are also keen on the defender, as Eddie Howe eyes a new right-back to complement Kieran Trippier and possibly replace him in the future. Meanwhile, Arteta wanted him for his playing style and may have seen attributes that suit Arsenal’s current system.
Had they signed the 18-year-old defensive prodigy in January, they might have let him stay at Valladolid for the remainder of the season. Arsenal continue to scout the player as he regularly features for the Spanish side in La Liga.
Arsenal could prioritise a summer move for Fresneda and could contact Valladolid again. The Gunners have proved their ability to pay the appropriate fee for the right talent in the past. The transfers of Aaron Ramsdale and Ben White are prime examples of their willingness to oblige to demands.
Fresneda’s physical attributes and technical quality makes him the ideal player to flourish under Arteta. He will have plenty of options in the summer, but his decision will reflect where he sees himself developing further.
The Gunners currently have Ben White as their first-choice right-back, with Takehiro Tomiyasu playing second fiddle. Fresneda’s potential arrival could allow Arteta to move one of the duo more centrally. The Gunners will need a large squad next season as they are favourites to return to the Champions League.
