Arsenal transfer target Ivan Fresneda has revealed his admiration for Mikel Arteta amid transfer speculation.
The 18-year-old right-back has enjoyed a breakout season in La Liga with Real Valladolid.
Fresneda has made a total of 17 league appearances this term and his form hasn't gone unnoticed, with both Newcastle and Arsenal reportedly keen on signing him last January.
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But the Gunners look set to reignite their pursuit this summer, and are braced for a three-way-fight with the Magpies and Borussia Dortmund.
When discussing the rumours, Fresneda told Spanish outlet AS that it was a 'source of pride' to be linked with all the clubs, but claimed he was also part of a 'big team'.
In a fresh boost for Gunners fans, the defender has revealed his admiration for Arteta.
Fresneda: I like Arteta
Arteta has led Arsenal to the top of the Premier League table, as the Gunners spy their first domestic title in almost two decades. While Fresneda has taken note of their impressive form.
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Valladolid’s bold style of football appears to suit the Spaniard well, and when asked about the way they play, he told The Athletic: “I love the style we try, to press high, to have the ball, to look for space, and to attack,
“But sometimes we have to suffer because the league is difficult.”
The Gunners use similar tactics and when this was suggested, Fresneda declared his admiration for Arteta.
“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,” he said.
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However, Fresneda insisted he is happy at Valladolid, taking the opportunity to praise current manager Paulo Pezzolano and former boss Pacheta.
“But now with Pezzolano and before with Pacheta we do that style of play, and that style is the one I like the most,” he added.
Joe Adams