Arsenal are said to have made the "first steps" to signing wonderkid right-back Ivan Fresneda, according to recent reports from CalcioMercato. The 18-year-old has been tipped for big things, having made a breakthrough this season for Spanish side Real Valladolid.
The Gunners aren't the only ones showing interest in the youngster though as Premier League rivals Newcastle United are also in contact over a move. Both sides can sign Fresneda in January for a reported transfer valuation of roughly £17.5million, but only for an upfront signing.
The Spaniard would join a growing list of youngsters making their way into the first-team at the Emirates Stadium, with plenty of focus on developing them into superstars. He would likely have time to develop at the club too, thanks to Mikel Arteta's current plan over Ben White.
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The defender has impressed since joining from Brighton last summer, moving from centre-back to right-back in a change of position this season. White even managed to earn himself a call-up to the England World Cup squad over the winter, but had to withdraw for personal reasons.
While there were questions over whether he would be involved on a return to club football, Arteta gave his backing: "We have done everything that we could to support him to again give him an environment that he is comfortable in," He said on the defender. "He has been exceptional with us and that is what we expect for him."
With White's inclusion in the side, it would allow Fresneda to play as an understudy, should he return. It wouldn't throw him in the deep end and would see him develop into an ideal player for the future.
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