Chelsea have thrown their hats into the ring for Real Valladolid’s rising star Ivan Fresneda and will rival Barcelona to secure the Spaniard’s services.
Despite Chelsea’s intentions, ESPN claims Fresneda is waiting on an offer from the La Liga title holders, who are yet to make headway in their negotiations with Valladolid.
Barca are desperate to land a right-back this summer, and Fresneda is high on their wishlist, but striking a deal with their Spanish counterparts has proven to be complicated.
They seemed to be making significant strides in their quest to capture Fresneda’s signature after submitting an initial proposal worth around €10 million.
However, Valladolid are holding out for more to part ways with their prized asset, who is eager to depart the Estadio Jose Zorrilla before the transfer window closes.
Having progressed through the youth ranks at Valladolid, the 18-year-old full-back enjoyed a breakout season last term making 22 La Liga appearances.
Although the campaign ended in relegation for Los Albivioletas, Fresneda’s performances caught the eye, earning admiration from several high-profile European clubs.
The teenager has been linked with a move to AC Milan, Arsenal, and Borussia Dortmund during the summer, but Barca appear to be his preferred destination.
However, the Spanish heavyweights are internally divided on whether or not to forge ahead in their pursuit of the exciting teenager.
Barca head coach Xavi Hernandez is keen to bolster the vacant role with a more experienced option, hence his admiration for Manchester City outcast Joao Cancelo.
Meanwhile, recently appointed sporting director Deco favours Fresneda, who is seen as a longer-term option despite having just 22 top-flight appearances to his name.
Barca’s internal deliberation could open the door for Chelsea to hijack the deal. The West Londoners are watching, with keen interest, to see how the situation unfolds.
They just lost captain Reece James to injury, leaving Malo Gusto as the only recognised right back in the squad, so a potential move for Fresneda could be on the cards.