Arsenal in four-way battle with Borussia Dortmund, Juventus and Newcastle United to sign Ivan Fresneda - Paper Round

Europe's top clubs chase Spanish wonderkid Arsenal are ready to reignite their pursuit of Real Valladolid right-back Ivan Fresneda this summer after being forced to turn to alternative targets in the winter transfer window. The Gunners ended up signing Leandro Trossard and Jorginho in January, while Fresneda stayed in Spain.

The Gunners are planning to sign the 18-year-old ahead of next season, but now face fierce competition from three of Europe's top clubs. Ad The Standard reveal: «Clubs from across Europe have been impressed by his development but Arsenal, Dortmund, Juventus and Newcastle are currently the four frontrunners.

TransfersGerrard considered for shock return to management with PSG — Paper RoundA DAY AGO »Fresneda has a release clause of £26.5million in his contract and Valladolid will hope to spark a bidding war which means they can get close to that amount. «Arsenal have been scouting Fresneda and will continue to monitor him for the rest of the season.» Pickford plans Everton extension Jordan Pickford is edging towards an agreement to sign a new contract with Everton.

The England international had been linked with Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United in recent months due to the uncertainty over his long-term future at Goodison Park. Pickford's current contract is set to expire in 2024, so a new deal will end any rumours around a transfer away from Everton.

The Times report: «Negotiations with the England No 1 have been taking place for several months and there has been significant progress to leave Everton optimistic that they can retain the 28-year-old. »Despite Everton’s precarious position in the Premier League and a second successive season of struggle, Pickford has always been keen on staying.