Arsenal have not tabled an “official proposal” for Real Valladolid fullback Ivan Fresneda, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.

There had been reports in the German media that the Gunners have made an offer for the Spaniard but Romano claims the race to sign the defender is very much still “open”:

Arsenal appreciate Iván Fresneda since January but told they have NOT sent any official proposal, despite reports ⚪️🔴 #AFC

No concrete negotiation at this stage, race remains open — with Borussia Dortmund interested. pic.twitter.com/IZXZ5G4SD0

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 30, 2023

Fresneda reportedly has a €30m (£26m) release clause in his contract, although it is believed that Real Valladolid would accept an offer for below that figure.

The highest transfer fee that the La Liga club have received for a player is the £10.9m that Southampton paid for Mohammed Salisu so any bid above that amount is likely to be considered.

Arsenal are in the market for a new right-back

Manager Mikel Arteta does not want to go into next season with Takehiro Tomiyasu as his only recognised right-back. Ben White did exceptionally well playing out of position but it is felt that extra cover is required.

In addition to Fresneda, Galatasaray’s Sacha Boey and Ajax’s Devyne Rensch have been mentioned as options, while a centre-half target, RB Leipzig’s Mohamed Simakan, has also been deployed as a fullback.