Arsenal have been in ‘conversations with the agents’ of a £27million star ahead of potentially making a move ahead of the deadline, it has been claimed.
Arsenal have held ‘conversations’ with Real Valladolid star Ivan Fresneda’s representatives over a potential move to the Emirates Stadium, transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has told GiveMeSport.
Having followed the £27million capture of Leandro Trossard with the £20million acquisition of Jakub Kiwior, Gunners boss Mikel Arteta could still add further reinforcements to his squad ahead of the fast-approaching deadline.
GiveMeSport Transfer Update
Arsenal transfer news – Ivan Fresneda
According to Football Insider, Arsenal are confident of beating Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund to the signing of Fresneda.
The report suggests the north Londoners have now jumped into pole position after a breakthrough in talks over the Valladolid right-back.
Arsenal and Dortmund are battling it out for Fresneda’s signature after both clubs have agreed a £13.1million fee, with his current employers eager to retain his services for the remainder of the campaign.
Alex Crook, the respected talkSPORT reporter, recently told GiveMeSport that Gunners chief Arteta is ‘really keen’ to win the race for the 18-year-old’s signature.
Amid ongoing uncertainty over his future, Fresneda was absent from a Valladolid training session earlier this week.
What has Fabrizio Romano said about Fresneda?
While Arsenal have upped the ante in their pursuit of Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Moises Caicedo and had a £60million bid rejected, Romano understands the Gunners have also held discussions with Fresneda’s representatives.
The reliable journalist is aware that Valladolid are willing to accept less than the release clause written into the Spaniard’s contract, which is worth close to £27million, but they remain adamant that he must be loaned straight back to the La Liga side for the rest of the season.
Romano told GiveMeSport: “At the moment, it is not that easy. But it’s true that Arsenal had conversations with his agents and it’s true that Arsenal are interested.
“It’s going to be important to understand what they can offer because Real Valladolid are prepared to accept less than the release clause.
“The release clause is €30million, but they’re prepared to accept around €15million and they want the player to stay until the end of the season to help Real Valladolid to fight and stay in La Liga. Borussia Dortmund are offering that.”
Read more: January Transfer Window 2023: When Does It Begin, Rumours and Everything You Need To Know
What would Fresneda add to Arsenal’s squad?
According to FBref, Fresneda has averaged more tackles, interceptions and clearances per 90 minutes than Arsenal defender Ben White this season.
That is no mean feat considering the England international, who joined the Gunners in a £50million deal from Brighton & Hove Albion 18 months ago, has played a key role in the capital club’s Premier League title charge.
Fresneda has been a consistently high performer and only three Valladolid teammates have been handed a better WhoScored average match rating since the La Liga campaign got underway.
The teenager has made 14 appearances during the early stages of his senior club career and it is clear he has an abundance of talent.
Valladolid boss Pacheta has described Fresneda as being ‘brutal’ and Arsenal should do all they can to beat Dortmund to his signature.
You can find all of the latest football news and rumours right here