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Arsenal now eyeing swoop for Sporting CP right-back Ivan Fresneda

By on October 5, 2026

Ivan Fresneda

Arsenal remain keen on signing Sporting CP’s exciting fullback Ivan Fresneda, as per Portuguese outlet Correio da Manhã, as relayed by Sport Witness.

Like most Madrid-born players, Fresneda began his career in Real Madrid’s academy, although his development continued elsewhere after joining Leganés in 2018 and then Real Valladolid in 2020.

It was with Valladolid that he made his mark, notably becoming the third youngest player to feature for the club at just 17 years, 03 months, and 08 days, in the 3-0 loss to Real Betis on January 5, 2022.

The youngster went on to establish himself as one of the brightest prospects in Spain and was instrumental to the club’s promotion to the Spanish top flight in 2023 before joining Sporting in the summer of 2023.

Since joining the Portuguese giants, Fresneda has been a vital cog in the team, playing key roles in their consecutive Primeira Liga title triumphs in 2023-24 and 2024-25.

Rui Borges has continued to trust Fresneda during the current campaign, with the fullback appearing in all eight of Sporting’s games in all competitions.

Now, citing Portuguese outlet Correio da Manhã, Sport Witness reports that Fresneda’s recent call-up to the Spanish national team has heightened interest in him among several clubs, including Arsenal.

Fresneda has reportedly been a long-term target for the Gunners, particularly in the recently concluded summer transfer window.

Natural right-back

It appears the North London club are not relenting in their efforts, as the report adds that Arsenal remain interested in signing the 22-year-old, although his decision to remain with Sporting in the summer has increased his valuation.

However, Arsenal will face a tough battle in signing the Spaniard, as Barcelona are also showing interest in him, while Sporting are accelerating talks to extend his contract beyond 2028, according to the report.

Mikel Arteta currently has Jurrien Timber and Ben White as right-back options, while the versatile Cristhian Mosquera can also play there.

However, having played as a fullback for most of his career, Fresneda offers something different: a constant attacking foray from deep while also being defensively solid whenever called upon.

So far this season, the Spanish international has completed 91.2% of his passes and made eight touches in the opposition box while also averaging 4.03 recoveries and 2.30 tackles per game in the Primeira Liga, an indication of the balanced on-ball and off-ball qualities he offers.

With the report claiming Sporting are keen on extending his contract, Arsenal will need to act swiftly by submitting a concrete offer well over his £17m Transfermarkt valuation to tempt the club into selling him.