Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is 'really keen' to lure Real Valladolid star Ivan Fresneda to the Emirates Stadium, but the Gunners are facing 'genuine' competition from Borussia Dortmund, talkSPORT reporter Alex Crook has told GiveMeSport.

Having already signed Leandro Trossard and Jakub Kiwior during the January transfer window, there is still time for the north Londoners to acquire further recruits ahead of the deadline.

GiveMeSport Transfer Update

Arsenal transfer news - Ivan Fresneda

According to Football Insider, Arsenal are confident of winning the race for Fresneda's signature after moving into pole position.

The report suggests the Gunners have gone ahead of Bundesliga giants Dortmund after both clubs have headed to Valladolid with a bid.

It is understood that Arsenal and Dortmund have agreed a £13.1million deal which would involve Fresneda remaining with his current employers on loan for the rest of the season.

Daily Express journalist Ryan Taylor recently told GiveMeSport that Valladolid have been willing to negotiate a fee for less than the £25million release clause written into the right-back's contract.

Arsenal and Dortmund are now waiting for a decision from Fresneda, who has also attracted interest from Newcastle United.

What has Alex Crook said about Fresneda?

Crook understands that Arteta is an admirer of Fresneda and the Arsenal boss is eager to get a deal sewn up before the transfer window slams shut.

But the talkSPORT reporter has warned that Dortmund are also vying for the teenager's signature, leaving the Gunners with a major obstacle to overcome.

Crook told GiveMeSport: "Arteta's really keen on Fresneda, but the interest from Dortmund is genuine.

"They've got a rival there, which is a potential problem."

Read more: January Transfer Window 2023: When Does It Begin, Rumours and Everything You Need To Know

Would Fresneda be a good signing for Arsenal?

There is no doubt that Fresneda has a bright future ahead of him and, according to Sofascore, he averages 2.9 tackles, 2.5 clearances and 1.3 interceptions per La Liga outing this season.

The 18-year-old is clearly resolute and, having already made 12 appearances in a breakthrough campaign, he has gained experience at the top level.

Cedric Soares appears to be on his way to Premier League rivals Fulham on loan, after negotiations have accelerated in recent days, and Fresneda could be the perfect long-term replacement.

FBref statistics show the Spaniard has averaged more tackles and interceptions than his fellow right-back, while also boasting a better pass completion ratio, per 90 minutes this season.

A WhoScored average match rating of 6.69 emphasises that Fresneda is a consistently high performer, with only three Valladolid teammates securing a better figure, and Arsenal should do all they can to see off Dortmund in the battle for his signature.

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