Ivan Fresneda of Real Valladolid is being considered by Barcelona as a cheap option to strengthen the right-back position this summer, claims Gabriel Sans of Mundo Deportivo.
The 18-year-old starlet had a successful La Liga debut season with Valladolid the previous time around. And despite the fact that they were ultimately demoted, Fresneda has already attracted a sizable following.
Borussia Dortmund and the young Spanish star have been in negotiations to join forces, and Barcelona has also met with Fali Ramadani, who also represents Marcos Alonso.
Despite reports that Xavi preferred a more seasoned candidate to fill the right-back position, Fresneda is being considered as a cost-effective alternative given the club’s financial situation.
Following Valladolid’s relegation from La Liga, the 18-year-old’s release clause, which was originally worth €40 million, has been reduced to just €20 million.
Additionally, according to MD, the young player’s club that was demoted might be open to accepting a lower price of around €15 million, which would make him a desirable acquisition for the Blaugrana.
However, before making any moves, Barcelona must first make some sales because they currently lack the resources and salary margin needed to sign players.
It has caused the Marcelo Brozovic deal to stall and, unless the Catalans are successful in offloading players, will also obstruct any future efforts.
As previously mentioned, Fresneda is drawing considerable interest from all over Europe. Along with Barcelona and Borussia Dortmund, other teams interested in him include Bournemouth, Juventus, AC Milan, and Inter Milan.
So, if the La Liga champions want to sign the 18-year-old prospect, they must act quickly.