‘Powerful’ Newcastle target now considered by European giants

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Newcastle United transfer target Ivan Fresneda is now being eyed up by Barcelona, according to a report.

The Magpies have been linked with the Spaniard as they aim to sign a right-back, with Southampton defender Tino Livramento the priority.

However, Eddie Howe may now lose his alternative option, with Barcelona considering a move for the Real Valladolid defender as an alternative option to Joao Cancelo.

90min have now reported that Barcelona are considering a move for Fresneda, 18, with Xavi demanding a new right-back to help cope with the departure of Ousmane Dembele to Paris Saint-Germain.

Newcastle are yet to make any formal offer for Fresneda, but their interest dates back to January, and with a deal for Livramento still not looking close, they may wish to consider a move for the teenager.

Should Newcastle go for Fresneda?

Although Barcelona are now interested in Fresneda, the defender has a £17m release clause, making any deal easy to do, and if Newcastle move quickly they could beat the Spanish giants to him, given their financial issues.

With Livramento potentially costing £40m, Fresneda may arguably be the better purchase, and the club can save themselves an extra headache by trying to negotiate with Southampton.

Howe is keen on a young right-back to provide competition for Kieran Trippier, and eventually replace the Englishman in the long run, and Fresneda could be the ideal target.

He has been described as “powerful,” by former World Cup winner Emmanuel Petit, and could slot into Newcastle’s system with ease, given his ability on the ball and his strength in duels.

Newcastle may keep a close eye on how Barcelona’s interest in Cancelo progresses, as that could give them a free path to sign Fresneda if a deal for Livramento collapses.