Real Valladolid manager Pacheta has admitted that Newcastle United target Ivan Fresneda is likely to leave this month.
During his pre-match press conference ahead of his side’s Copa del Rey clash against Alaves today, the Spanish boss was quizzed about rumours linking the 18-year-old defender with a move to the Magpies and other European clubs.
“I think Fresneda has few games left with the Real Valladolid shirt,” Pacheta said, as quoted by Marca.
“He is 18 years old, but he does things that people of 30 do.
“If I was at another club, I would go for him without hesitation, his data is brutal and you are not buying the current player, you are buying what he can become in a few years.”
According to journalist Mark Carruthers, Fresneda has reportedly said goodbye to his teammates, with a move to Tyneside now believed to be ‘fairly a done deal’.
Manager admits Fresneda is likely to leave
Eddie Howe has widely been looking for a back-up to fan-favourite Kieran Trippier since the summer.
The Toon were strongly linked with a move for West Ham youngster Harrison Ashby, but a deadline day deal fell through at the last minute.
Whilst rumours have suggested this proposition could be revisited again this month, the Magpies have also looked at Leeds’ Cody Drameh.
However, it now appears Newcastle have found their man in Fresneda.
The 18-year-old has already established himself as a mainstay in Valladolid’s best XI, having impressed with the first-team this season.
Lauded for his ‘superb’ performance against Real Madrid, the Spaniard was hailed as ‘one of the most talented teenage right-backs in Europe’ by scout Jacek Kulig.
Therefore, if the Magpies can get this deal over the line, it appears they will have a huge prospect amongst their ranks.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
