Arsenal step up talks for Ivan Fresneda

Arsenal have reportedly stepped up negotiations to sign Real Valladolid right-back Ivan Fresneda this month.

The teenager has made only nine league appearances for the La Liga outfit, but he could be on the move soon.

His agents have travelled to London recently and Fabrizio Romano claims that talks are underway with the Gunners.

The north London giants are, however, not alone in the player's pursuit and there is competition from four clubs.

Newcastle United are one of the clubs interested and Arsenal will be hoping that they can convince Fresneda.

Mikel Arteta currently has Ben White, Takehiro Tomiyasu and Cedric Soares as the right-back options in the squad.

Cedric is expected to join Fulham in the coming days and Fresneda has been touted to come in as the replacement.

The youngster could be the back-up to White in future as Tomiyasu could be seen as more of a central defender.

Tomiyasu plays regularly at the heart of the defence for Japan.