Arsenal: Gunners unlikely to sign Fresneda

Arsenal are now unlikely to sign Ivan Fresneda, with the right-back ‘expected to stay’ at Real Valladolid, according to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano.

The Lowdown: Arsenal’s pursuit of Fresneda

The Gunners were said to be in pole position to sign the 18-year-old at one stage last week, moving ahead of Borussia Dortmund in the race to sign the right-back for a fee of £13m, as per The Athletic.

The move did not develop any further, and Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth recently told GIVEMESPORT that ‘multiple bids’ were expected from clubs across Europe during the remainder of the transfer window.

However, a more recent update now indicates that Valladolid could keep hold of the right-back, at least until the summer.

The Latest: Romano’s update

While Romano does not completely rule out a move, he clarified on Twitter that it is very unlikely for any deal to be done before the deadline.

The Italian said: “Understand Iván Fresneda will stay at Valladolid in January unless there are twists in the final hours. Arsenal & Borussia Dortmund wanted Spanish talented RB but deal was never done, Fresneda now expected to stay and help Valladolid. Next step: top club move in the summer.”

The Verdict: Frustrating for Arsenal

Considering that Arsenal were at one stage said to have agreed terms with the 18-year-old, it will be frustrating for Mikel Arteta to miss out at this late juncture, particularly considering the vast potential that the youngster possesses.

Hailed as being ‘quick and athletic’ by Matt Clark of the La Liga Lowdown, the starlet’s defensive attributes are staggering, ranking in the 99th percentile compared to other full-bacs for tackles per 90 over the course of the past year, averaging 3.39.

Football scout Ron Dor has also praised the Spaniard for his attributes on the front foot, claiming that he is a ‘quality crosser’ with ‘dynamic dribbling’, highlighting that he is a very well-rounded player.

Missing out on Fresneda won’t have major ramifications for Arsenal in the title race, given that he was expected to be loaned straight back out anyway, but it will still be disappointing that they have seemingly missed a golden opportunity to sign a top young prospect.