Newcastle United are being heavily linked with signing Ivan Fresneda this month, and the defender is reportedly interested in a move to St James’ Park.
That is according to Sky Sports, who report that the 18-year-old is flattered that the Magpies want to sign him and is open to leaving Real Valladolid to join Eddie Howe’s side.
Newcastle are in the market for a right-back in January, as they look for better backup for Kieran Trippier. Howe’s options have been limited this season, with Emil Krafth suffering a horrible knee injury back in August. Our other right-back option is Javi Manquillo, who has rarely featured under Howe.
The Magpies want to sign someone young who can come in and eventually take Trippier’s place, and it looks like they might have found that in Fresneda.
He is only a teenager, but is enjoying a breakthrough season in La Liga. He recently excelled against Real Madrid, keeping the lively Vinicius Junior at bay. Newcastle scouts watched him in person that night, and it sounds like the club are now making their move to sign the Spaniard.
It was reported on Wednesday that Newcastle are close to a deal, while Spanish outlet Pucela Fichajes claimed that an offer from Dan Ashworth was imminent.
Fresneda interested in signing for Newcastle
Now Sky Sports have provided an update on the Fresneda situation, and believe he is keen on a move to the Premier League’s third-placed team.
They add that the defender is seen as someone who can learn from Trippier and develop his game, before eventually becoming a key player in black and white. That will be the aim, as the club look to secure their long-term replacement for the 32-year-old.
There has been a lot of interest in Fresneda, but it appears that Newcastle are winning the race. Sky Sports state that Borussia Dortmund and Juventus are keen, while Arsenal have also been linked with making a move.
But the Magpies appear to be in pole position, with Fresneda closest to becoming Newcastle’s second signing of 2023 after Garang Kuol.
Newcastle are building for the future with a lot of their signings, and Fresneda would be another who falls into that category. The fact he is keen is a huge plus, as that means he is open to starting his Toon career as Trippier’s deputy.
If he does move to St James’ Park, he will be learning from the best, and that will serve him and Newcastle very well in the coming years.
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