Arsenal accelerate pursuit of Fresneda as City and Newcastle rival Gunners for Sporting full-back

Arsenal are considering a summer move for Sporting Lisbon right-back Ivan Fresneda, according to a report from Sport Witness, as Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen his squad following a Premier League title win and a Champions League final appearance.

The 21-year-old Spaniard came through at Real Valladolid before joining Sporting in 2023, but struggled for minutes under then-manager Ruben Amorim, making just 10 appearances in his debut season. The arrival of Rui Borges transformed Fresneda’s fortunes — the new head coach made tactical adjustments that unlocked the full-back’s potential and helped him develop his mentality.

Fresneda went on to become one of Sporting’s standout performers in this season’s Champions League, with a particularly impressive display against eventual winners PSG. He covered 11km and registered nine defensive contributions in a 2-1 victory over the French side.

Sporting Lisbon currently consider Fresneda untouchable, with his release clause set at €80 million. However, the level of interest from multiple top clubs could yet soften the Portuguese side’s stance. Arsenal face competition from Manchester City and Newcastle United, both of whom have been tracking the player.

Arsenal’s need for a right-back has been a recurring theme under Arteta, and Fresneda’s profile — young, technically capable, and proven in both domestic and European competition — fits the mould of the Gunners’ recruitment strategy. His familiarity with high-level Champions League football, including a victory over PSG, adds further appeal as Arsenal look to go one step further in Europe next season.

Whether the €80 million release clause proves a barrier or a benchmark for negotiations remains to be seen, but the reported interest signals that Arsenal are serious about addressing the position this summer.