Arsenal are pushing for Real Valladolid defender Ivan Fresneda in the summer transfer window, according to Bild journalist Christian Falk. 

The 18-year-old is a “brilliant” player, and he has a market value of €10m. Borussia Dortmund want him, but they face competition from Arsenal.

The youngster has a contract with the Spanish club until 2025 so he would cost around €20m (£18m), and the Gunners can easily afford him.

Falk says that the north London giants are “pushing for his signature” and they are ready to pay more to secure his signing.

The problem for Dortmund is that if they want to sign him, they will have to come up with a tempting offer.

On top of that, they’ll need to sell Thomas Meunier. The 31-year-old Belgian has a contract until 2024 but he has dropped down the pecking order at the club.

“Real Valladolid’s brilliant 18-year-old, Ivan Fresneda, who has a market value of €10m, has become an option for Dortmund,” wrote Falk.

“The right-back has a contract with the Spaniards until 2025 so he would cost around €20m, however, Arsenal are also pushing for his signature and could spend significantly more money.

“If Dortmund do want to bring the player to the Bundesliga, in order to have enough money for him they’ll need to sell Thomas Meunier.

“The 31-year-old Belgian has a contract until 2024 but is only third-choice full-back and is also very injury-prone. No wonder that sports director Sebastian Kehl would like to save on his annual €7m salary, whilst also commanding a small fee for his services.”

Arsenal transfer news: Ivan Fresneda would be smart signing 

This has been a breakthrough season for Fresneda, and he has been outstanding for the La Liga club. Since making his league debut last year in September, he has become a key player for Paulo Pezzolano’s side.

The youngster has made 21 appearances for Real Valladolid this season, including 16 league starts. He has shown his versatility by playing both as a right-back and centre-back, and could be a handy addition to the Arsenal squad.

The Gunners, however, could also face stiff competition from the likes of Newcastle United who can tempt him to make a move to St James’ Park if they secure Champions League football next season.

Valladolid are battling for survival in La Liga, and if they get relegated, Fresneda is likely to leave the club.