Newcastle United target ‘won’t’ be sold in January transfer window

Newcastle United have suffered a further blow in their pursuit of Ivan Fresneda, with Fabrizio Romano revealing the defender will stay at Real Valladolid for the rest of the season. The Magpies had already fallen behind Arsenal and Borussia Dortmund in the race for the teenager.

Newcastle have been heavily linked with a move for Fresneda throughout the January transfer window with reports in Spain previously claiming that a deal between the two clubs had almost been agreed. However, it now appears that the full-back won’t be arriving in Tyneside in the near future.

Frenesda joined Valladolid’s academy in 2020 and went onto make his senior debut at just 1 years old the following year. After making his La Liga debut only four months ago, the Spaniard has made ten appearances this season and has attracted interest from across Europe.

Fresneda was seen as one for the future at St. James’ Park and could have been a potential replacement for Kieran Trippier when he eventually leaves the club. The 32-year-old signed a contract extension with the Magpies until 2025.

Fresneda could still be set for a big move away from the Spanish club in the summer and Newcastle could reignite their interest. However, they are likely to still remain in competition from a number of top clubs. Arsenal could also look to snap him up if they allow Cedric Soares to leave on a permanent deal. The full-back is looking increasingly likely to leave on loan before deadline day and they could look to cash in at the end of the season, with only a year remaining on his contract.

While United will be disappointed that they have missed out on Fresneda, they don’t appear to be targeting any other defenders this month. Eddie Howe has instead turned his attention to two midfielders - Sheffield United’s Sander Berge and Chelsea’s Conor Gallagher.