ALMOST AGREED: Arsenal planning shock move for 18-year-old Saliba’s Replacement

Real Valladolid defender Ivan Fresneda is in high demand ahead of the winter window. At least three PL clubs are vying for his signature, along with a host of Spanish sides, as they want a deal done as early as possible due to the right-back’s complex release clause.

Real Valladolid did a splendid job in the summer to fend off interest in some of their footballers, notably Fresneda. Ivan was attracting considerable interest from La Liga clubs in that period, but they held on to him.

U19 Spain international is a highly-rated fullback in Spanish circles, and Valladolid did a splendid job retaining him. They also tied him to a long-term deal, with an initial release clause worth €10m back in July. That figure has since tripled due to a stipulation in his agreement.

The 18-year-old defender’s release clause stands at €30m after playing six times for Valladolid this campaign. Additionally, if the Spaniard is to play 22 games for the club, his clause will shoot up to €45m. However, Arsenal could lose Cedric Soares in winter and may bring in the Spanish right-back as a replacement.

The Spanish manager has fortified the right-back position with Ben White and Tomiyasu fighting for a place, but they offer similar qualities. Mikel Arteta would like to bring about competition among younger footballers such as Ivan Fresneda and Brooke Norton-Cruffy for a future position.