Earlier this week, Xavi Hernandezconfirmedhis desire to sign a new right-back this summer, with only Jules Kounde as a realistic option at present for next season.
However, as a result of their poor financial standing, many of their options have been ruled out due to lack of funds. As such, their leading target is Ivan Fresneda, who is expected to leaveReal Valladolidthis summer following their relegation from LaLiga.
Decoheld talkswith Fresneda’s representatives this week, although a Ԁєɑł is not believed to be a priority at this time. As a result,Barcelonaare no longer in pole position, withMDɾєρօɾτing thatArsenalhave leapfrogged them in the race to sign the highly-rated teenager.
Arsenal were very interested in signing Fresneda back in January, although their interest had fizzled out in subsequent months. However, they are appear to be back in a race that includes AC Milan and Juventus, as well asBarcelona.
Fresneda has a €20m release clause in hisReal Valladolidcontract, although La Pucela are believed to be willing to sell him for half of that amount. IfBarcelonaare to sign the 18-year-old this summer, they may need to make their move soon.
