In a recent report, Mundo Deportivo stated that Arsenal are still showing interest in Real Valladolid youngster Ivan Fresneda this summer. It has been mentioned that the Gunners are keen on bringing the Spanish full-back to the Emirates Stadium in this off-season.
Fresneda’s Recent Emergence In La Liga
Fresneda had a solid season at Real Valladolid as he produced a run of impressive displays on the right side of their defence. The 18-year-old featured in 24 matches for the Spanish club in the previous campaign, picking up three yellow cards in the process across all competitions.
The Spanish prospect caught the eye in both halves based on his average of 2.2 tackles, 0.7 interceptions, 2.0 clearances, 0.8 key passes and 0.7 dribbles per 90 minutes in La Liga. He even distributed possession with conviction after he completed 80.7% of his attempted passes in league football (stats via whoscored).
Fresneda is under contract at the Spanish club until 2025. Therefore, it will be difficult for the Gunners to snap him up on the cheap this summer.
Arsenal Are Still Showing Interest In Fresneda: Is He A Prospect For The Future?
Fresneda is a good defender at the back as he can scan the danger quickly to secure the ball back for his team inside his half. He doesn’t hesitate to clear the danger when needed and can also make a few driving runs with the ball on the right wing.
The Spanish whizkid has got the vision to engineer a few promising chances for his teammates from the wide areas. However, he is still quite inexperienced at the highest level and would need time to settle into life in English football.
Fresneda is already good enough to challenge for a regular spot in Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta‘s starting XI. He has the potential to become a future star in European football and would be a great, long-term target for the Gunners to pursue during this summer transfer period.
At 18, there is no denying that Fresneda is a prospect to look out for in the coming years. Hence, Arteta would be wise to try everything in his power to bring him on board ahead of the new season.
