Arsenal are considering a move for Sporting CP right-back Ivan Fresneda, according to to A Bola (press reader edition).
The Gunners have been long-term admirers of Fresneda. They expressed an interest in him in the summer of 2023, but he chose to join Sporting instead.
The Spain youth international enjoyed his best campaign with the Portuguese giants last term, starting 21 league games.
Sporting are reluctant to sell Fresneda, despite the £69 million release clause in the full-back’s contract.
Real Madrid, Manchester City and Newcastle United are also in the race for his signature.
Arsenal should abandon Fresneda’s pursuit
Despite his growth at Sporting, Fresneda is not yet ready to play for a club the size of Arsenal.
Fresneda ranked below most right-backs in the Portuguese top flight last season for tackles, interceptions and recoveries.
However, he excelled in one-on-one defending, ranking in the 70th percentile for preventing being dribbled past. He also excelled in aerial duels.
His discipline could be concerning, as he committed one foul per game, placing him among the most aggressive right full-backs.
Fresneda does not offer much offensively despite his constant involvement in possession and his progressive carrying ability.
He registered just one goal involvement in the Portuguese top flight last season, although he ranked in the 57th percentile for expected assists.
The Madrid-born defender also performed below most of his pairs for chances created including big chances and successful crosses.
Given his limitations in a league considered inferior to the Premier League and Sporting’s huge valuation, Arsenal could be making a mistake by signing the former Real Valladolid man.
With Jurrien Timber, Ben White and Cristian Mosquera, the north London side are already well covered at right-back. They should only sign a clear upgrade on their current options.