If a report from Spanish outlet AS is believed to be true, Leeds United are among a host of clubs to keep close tabs on rising Real Valladolid sensation Iván Fresneda. But they will face fierce rivalry from European heavyweights and multiple Premier League clubs.
While Atletico Madrid already had a bid rejected for the teenager, clubs like Real Madrid, Barcelona, Villarreal, Inter Milan, Juventus, AC Milan, Arsenal, Liverpool, Newcastle United, Wolves, Brentford, Fulham, Everton and Southampton are tracking his progress at Estadio José Zorrilla. Fresneda’s release clause has jumped from €10m to €30m, and the same will rise to €45m should he complete 22 senior outings.
The 18-year-old right fullback progressed through the ranks of EMFO Boadilla and CF Quijorna before joining the academy setup of Real Madrid. But he left Los Blancos after four years in favour of Leganes. Valladolid roped him on a Bosman in the summer of 2020 and the youngster has since made strides in Blanquivioletas colours.
After impressing with the reserves, Fresneda earned his first-team debut earlier this year in a Copa del Rey encounter. However, he had to wait until September for his maiden La Liga appearance following an injury to Luis Pérez. Valladolid chief Pacheta has deployed him sporadically upon their return to the top tier of Spanish football and with 6 league appearances this season, the young defender has depicted glimpses of his excellence down the right-hand flank.
Why Leeds United Should Secure His Services
Leeds United have recovered from a dreadful start and climbed up the league ladder with successive wins. They are currently two points clear of the drop zone, but gaffer Jesse Marsch must bolster the squad in the winter window to avoid a downfall in the coming days.
The American boss succeeded Marcelo Bielsa towards the closure of the previous term and helped the Whites escape relegation under immense pressure. He won’t want a deja vu at the business end of the campaign, and therefore, should build depth to grind out results as well as inject quality in order to put his philosophy into practice.
Summer signing Rasmus Kristensen is being rotated with veteran Luke Ayling down the right of a four-man backline. Meanwhile, the latter is in his thirties with a dip in form lately and the signing of Fresneda could be viewed as a long-term replacement for the Englishman. Having said that, Leeds must put in a monumental effort and outmuscle the other suitors by splashing the cash in due time.
