Chelsea are interested in signing Real Valladolid right-back Ivan Fresneda, according to AS.

The Madrid-based newspaper claims that the Blues are a “serious suitor” for the Spaniard and an offer is set to be tabled “in the next few days”.

Barcelona have been locked in talks with Real Valladolid about signing Fresneda, but they are struggling to raise the funds necessary to secure his signature.

The La Liga champions have reportedly proposed an offer worth €8m (£6.9m) plus €10m (£8.6m) in add-ons for the teenager, but his club are holding out for around €20m (£17m).

Why are Chelsea pursuing the defender?

With manager Mauricio Pochettino already having two right-backs (Reece James and Malo Gusto) at his disposal, it’s difficult to see why the Blues would also want to buy Fresneda.

It could be the case that co-sporting directors Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley see the 18-year-old as one for the future, with the plan being to loan him out to Strasbourg.

You wouldn’t think Fresneda would be open to such a transfer when he has interest from Barcelona and other clubs.

Fresneda has been previously linked with a move to the Premier League

Arsenal have kept tabs on the Spanish Under 19 international for quite some time, but the Gunners have recently bought Jurrien Timber so they are not expected to be in the market for another fullback.

Newcastle were also believed to be scouting Fresneda but, after recruiting former Chelsea player Tino Livramento from Southampton, they are unlikely to enter the race for the Real Valladolid player either.

It does look like it will be a straight fight between Chelsea and Barcelona for the right-back. As we’ve explained, though, you wouldn’t class the Blues as favourites to snap him up but we will keep you posted on any future developments.