Real Valladolid have not yet received a ‘firm offer’ for Ivan Fresneda despite reports linking Premier League challengers Arsenal and Newcastle United with one of La Liga’s breakout stars, director David Espinar says in quotes reported by The Metro.
The message coming out of the Estadio Jose Zorrilla in recent weeks is that, while Valladolid do not have to sell Fresneda, neither will they stand in his way.
The 18-year-old right-back has made a huge impression since forcing his way into the starting XI this season; keeping Vinicius Jr quiet during a recent La Liga clash with European champions Real Madrid.
And, with both Newcastle and Arsenal making a habit of targeting some of the game’s most exciting up-and-coming talent, it should come as no surprise that Spain U19 international Fresneda is on the radar of either club.
According to the Daily Mail, Newcastle are in talks, Fresneda’s agent arriving in England over the weekend. Arsenal are in the mix too. The Telegraph believe that the Gunners would prefer to wait until the summer. Arsenal could speed things up amid interest from elsewhere, however, not to mention the uncertain future of Fulham-linked Cedric Soares.
Espinar, however, insists that while there are plenty of clubs hot on Fresneda’s heels, Real Valladolid are yet to receive any serious bids.
Arsenal and Newcastle United are hoping to sign La Liga starlet Ivan Fresneda
“No firm offer has arrived for Fresneda,” the director explains.
This could change sooner rather than later, of course. TuttoJuve believe that Arsenal are weighing up a £17 million offer as Italian giants Juventus take steps of their own.
“There is a lot of interest,” Espinar adds.
“We don’t have to sell any player to survive. But, in the football industry, everyone has to do it. It serves to strengthen squads, and gives opportunities to people who want to improve or seek another destination.”
Steve Nickson, Newcastle’s head of recruitment, was in the crowd to watch Fresneda produce a mature and composed performance against Carlo Ancelotti’s star-studded Real Madrid in late-December.
Valladolid coach Pacheta, meanwhile, expects to lose his teen sensation at some point in the near future.
“(The interest) is a compliment,” Fresneda tells Mundo Deportivo, while insisting that he is not letting the speculation distract him from the task at hand.
“(I am playing for) a historic club in the Spanish league, playing in the First Division. (I remain) focused on helping to meet the objectives and working to the maximum every day.
“My wish is to play for Real Valladolid, enjoy it on the field, do my bit. (I will try to) give the fans as much joy as possible.”
According to Sky Sports, Arsenal and Fulham remain in talks over a deal that will see Cedric move across London. The former Southampton ace worked under Cottagers boss Marco Silva at Sporting Lisbon.
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