Cesc Fabregas, the former Arsenal playmaker turned head coach, is adding a touch of Spanish flair to his rebuilding project at Italian side Como. The Serie A outfit, currently grappling with a 16th-place position in the standings, is poised to strengthen its squad by signing Ivan Fresneda, a highly regarded young defender once on Arsenal’s radar.

LISBON, PORTUGAL – DECEMBER 18: Ivan Fresneda of Sporting CP in action during the Portuguese Cup match between Sporting CP and CD Santa Clara at Estadio Jose Alvalade on December 18, 2024 in Lisbon, Portugal. (Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty Images)

Having taken over as Como manager in July, Fabregas aims to steer the club toward success, and the addition of Fresneda represents a significant step in that direction. This move rekindles an intriguing connection between Fabregas and Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, who had previously identified Fresneda as a potential signing for the Gunners.

Fresneda’s Journey: From Real Valladolid to Sporting CP

In early 2023, Fresneda was making headlines as a teenage right-back for Real Valladolid, capturing the attention of several elite clubs, including Arsenal. The then-18-year-old impressed with his maturity and technical ability, prompting Arteta’s side to express strong interest during the January transfer window.

Despite the allure of joining one of England’s top clubs, Fresneda made a surprising decision to remain with Valladolid. His agent later revealed to AS that the defender opted to “keep his feet on the ground” and focus on securing consistent playing time—a choice that earned widespread admiration.

Como Wants To Sign Spanish RB Iván Fresneda

Six months later, Fresneda took the next step in his career, signing with Sporting CP in Portugal. However, his stint in Lisbon has been challenging, with limited appearances due to injuries and stiff competition for a starting spot.

Fabregas’ Vision for Como Takes Shape

Fabregas’ Como has now swooped in to secure Fresneda’s services, with Fabrizio Romano reporting that a deal worth €10 million has been agreed. The arrangement involves an initial loan with an obligation to buy, offering Fresneda the chance to rediscover his form and confidence under Fabregas’ guidance.

This move underscores Fabregas’ ambition to inject young talent into his squad and reflects his ability to identify players with untapped potential. Fresneda, now 20, remains a prospect with immense promise, and a fresh start in Italy could provide the ideal environment for his development.

Arsenal Connections Resurface

Fresneda’s impending arrival at Como is not the first instance of Fabregas and Arteta crossing paths in the transfer market. In October 2024, Arsenal were linked to Nico Paz, another talent plying his trade at Fabregas’ Como. This shared interest highlights the overlapping philosophies of the two Spaniards, both of whom value technical proficiency and adaptability in their players.

Fresneda’s connection to Arsenal also lingers as a reminder of what could have been. His decision to reject Arteta’s proposal in 2023, though surprising at the time, now appears to have been a calculated move to prioritize his long-term growth.

Why Como is the Perfect Fit for Fresneda

Fresneda’s stint at Sporting CP may not have unfolded as planned, with just 10 appearances in the 2023/24 season and 11 so far in 2024/25. Yet, his ability remains unquestioned, and a move to Como could mark a turning point in his career.

Como offers a quieter stage for the defender to refine his game, away from the relentless pressure of playing for a top-tier club like Arsenal. Under Fabregas’ mentorship, Fresneda can focus on his craft while contributing to the Italian side’s resurgence.

A Promising Partnership

For Fabregas, landing a player of Fresneda’s caliber is a significant coup as he works to elevate Como’s fortunes. For Fresneda, the move represents a chance to rebuild his momentum and showcase his abilities in a league that values technical and tactical acumen.

Though Arsenal fans may wonder what might have been, this transfer is a testament to Fresneda’s patience and vision for his career. With Fabregas at the helm, the young defender has a golden opportunity to make his mark in Italy and beyond.

FAQs

Who is Ivan Fresneda, and why is he significant?

Ivan Fresneda is a 20-year-old Spanish right-back, formerly linked with Arsenal. He rose to prominence at Real Valladolid and later joined Sporting CP before moving to Como under Cesc Fabregas.