Arsenal and Chelsea are rumored to be interested in Real Valladolid right-back Ivan Fresneda, but several other sides are also looking for the boy to sign.
Chelsea are eyeing young defender Ivan Fresneda after Reece James’ latest injury. The Real Valladolid right-back has been tipped to move this summer with Arsenal and Barcelona between clubs linked to the 18-year-old.
However, an official offer has yet to be made and the Blues are in the running to sign him, as reported by ESPN. Blues leaders are said to be monitoring defender Jose Zorrilla’s situation at Stadium and could make an offer if they believe the boy is willing to move to London.
It comes after Chelsea captain James suffered another hamstring injury this week which is expected to sideline him for several weeks. “I think it’s a sad moment because he is our captain,” Mauricio Pochettino said during Friday’s pre-match press conference.
“He was so excited to be the captain, full of energy. I think we will judge him day by day as best we can. He will definitely become stronger than before, we will help him become stronger than before.” ”
The Argentine added: “Yes, it’s a hamstring. It’s not a few days, it’s maybe a few weeks. The good thing is that it’s not a big deal. The main thing now is to worry about anticipating problems. When he comes back to play, let’s hope he’s stronger than before. We will evaluate it day by day and make a plan every day.”
Chelsea are not the only London club interested in Fresneda. Arsenal met with representatives of the defender in January and indicated they could be ready for him again in the summer, Football.london understands. Mikel Arteta is said to admire the player, but the Gunners’ summer move for Jurrien Timber, who injured the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee last weekend, has meant ties with Fresneda have faltered. It remains to be seen whether the Gunners will replace the teenager again after Timber’s injury.
Fresneda’s release clause is said to include a release clause in his contract which is valued at around £17.1m (€20m). It remains to be seen whether the defender will leave Real Valladolid this summer, with Chelsea and Arsenal continuing to monitor the situation.
