The Future: Ivan Fresneda

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On December 26, 2022, Fabrizio Romano (an very reliable journalist for football transfers) had tweeted that several big clubs, including Juventus, Newcastle and Borussia Dortmund, were monitoring the development of a talented 18 year old fullback at Valladolid. Even Arsenal have been linked with him recently.

Ivan Fresneda. Who is he, and why is he attracting so much attention?

(Sofascore) Heatmap for Fresneda this season 


Fresneda is primarily a right back, who can play on the left. He has been a regular for Valladolid this season, and has been called up to the Spain U19 squad too. His height (6ft), added to his pace, vision, composure and defensive awareness, make him an exciting prospect. What is most impressive about him is his ability to effortlessly operate in tight spaces at such a young age.

(Fbref) Stats of Fresneda compared to other fullbacks over the last year


Such fine defensive stats already :) Some work on his offensive stats can convert him into a good fullback. However, it remains to be seen whether he can replicate his performances at a bigger stage.

His release clause (RC) is currently at 10 - 15 million euros, but it would rise to 30 - 45 million euros once he plays ~ 22 games for Valladolid.

Dortmund: 

'Die Schwarzgelben' had signed Julian Ryerson from Union Berlin in the winter transfer window for 5 million euros, who has performed well whenever called upon. However, further strengthening in the right back department is required, since Meunier and Passlack would most probably be offloaded in the summer. Wolf and Morey are makeshift options at best (even though they have performed reasonably when played in that position).

Julian Ryerson


Profile wise, he fits the bill too - a defensively solid fullback, driving the ball forward when necessary - just what Terzic's system needs. It makes sense therefore, that BvB will potentially try to sign Ivan Fresnada while his RC is low. Given that there might be some big money departures from the club (like that of Jude Bellingham's), they might not hesitate to trigger the RC even if it increases.

Juventus:

'The Old Lady' have two ageing right-backs in Danilo and Mattia De Sciglio. So, it only makes sense that they are linked to young right back options, including Fresnada. However, it remains to be seen to what extent will spend in the summer window. (They faced a 15 league points deduction by UEFA (for financial irregularities) which was subsquently lifted this season itself. Who knows what is going on behind the curtains.)

Danilo, after scoring his first goal for the Bianconeri (vs Napoli)

Newcastle:

Newcastle's starting right back, Kieran Trippier, is in the form of his life right now. So Fresneda would have to face stiff competition from him if he were to arrive, but eventually would be a healthy investment for the future. It also seems likely that some offloads would be on the cards this summer, since Fresneda's addition would mean that 4 - 5 right backs are contracted to the club's first team.

Kieran Trippier, after scoring a free kick (vs Man City)

Arsenal:

There is no doubt that Fresneda's potential will be unlocked by Mikel Arteta. He will fit into Arsenal's current signing philosophy (of signing young first team players) and tactical setup (involving a box midfield and inverted fullbacks). His arrival would allow Ben White to play at his more natural position (i.e. centre back), and would also provide healthy competition to Takehiro Tomiyasu.

Ben White (right), with Bukayo Saka (left)


Both Arsenal and Newcastle shouldn't have any problems pursuing the deal. Being Premier League clubs who will most likely play in the Champions League next season, they will be looking to spend big in the summer window. 

So that's about it. Hope you enjoyed reading, see you on my next post :)