Arsenal handed Ivan Fresneda transfer boost as Real Valladolid prospect lavishes praise on 'fantastic' Mikel Arteta

Real Valladolid right-back Ivan Fresneda praised Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, after being linked with the Gunners.

Fresneda linked with Arsenal
Believes Arteta is a great coach
Fresneda likes Arsenal's style

WHAT HAPPENED? In an interview with The Athletic, Fresneda was full of praise for Arteta, stating he appreciates him as a manager and in particular likes the type of football he makes his team play. The Real Valladolid right-back has been on Arsenal's radar for a long time and his comments would be music to their ears.

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WHAT THEY SAID: "I like Arteta a lot because I think he’s a great coach; I follow the European leagues and I think the work he’s doing with his club is fantastic," said the 18-year-old.

THE BIGGER PICTURE: Arsenal have been hoping to sign Fresneda since the last transfer window and had even began official talks with Real Valladolid for his signature, however, a move did not come to fruition. While the defender praised Arteta and his tactics, he also reaffirmed that his current team also plays a good style of football.

"But now with Pezzolano and before with Pacheta we do that style of play, and that style is the one I like the most," remarked Fresneda.

Premier League