Romano reveals truth over Arsenal interest in Bitello and addresses Fresneda speculation | OneFootball

Bitello and Ivan Fresneda have been linked to Arsenal.

Fabrizio Romano has addressed speculation that Arsenal are keen on signing Gremio midfielder Bitello and Real Valladolid defender Ivan Fresneda.

A report in 90min a couple of weeks ago claimed the Gunners have opened talks over a possible transfer for Bitello as they look to make their fourth signing of the summer transfer window.

It was rumoured that a deal would cost Arsenal around £8.5m plus a sell-on fee with Radio Guaiba journalist Rafael Pfeiffer expecting the Premier League side to make a bid last week.

And Real Valladolid right-back Fresneda is another name doing the rounds on social media with the Spaniard linked to the north London club for many months.

There has been some speculation that Arsenal could revive their interest in Fresneda with Real Valladolid’s sporting director Fran Sanchez revealing they’ve had offers for the defender.

Sanchez said: “Some proposals have arrived for Fresneda, not in writing, but verbally, about what they can pay, but we haven’t responded yet.”

And transfer expert Romano is aware of the rumours of Arsenal interest in both Bitello and Fresneda but insists there is nothing concrete at this stage.

Romano wrote in his Caught Offside column: “I’m aware that there have been reports claiming a deal is close for Arsenal to sign Bitello from Gremio this week, but I’m not sure things are as advanced as others have suggested.

“My understanding is that Bitello is one of many talents followed and monitored by Arsenal’s South American scouting team, as he’s doing very well at Gremio. Let’s see if they will open talks in the next days; rumours have been there since one month but we’re still waiting for an official move or bid at the moment.

“Ivan Fresneda remains likely to move this summer, even if Arsenal are no longer being linked with him as they always considered Jurrien Timber a versatile, smart option for that position, the best on the market, according to Gunners board.

“Fresneda could have other options, but links with Bournemouth have not been confirmed. AC Milan had his name on their list but they decided to focus on different deals, while Barcelona also met his agents but are now working on other options (I’d always include Joao Cancelo on their list).”