Arsenal Launch Bold Pursuit of Real Madrid's Rising Teenage Sensation Despite Daunting Challenge

Arsenal continue to monitor a potential transfer for promising Real Madrid centre-back Víctor Valdepeñas, according to recent reports.

The North London club has experience with adaptable left-sided defensive players. Riccardo Calafiori was accompanied this summer by Bayer Leverkusen loan signing Piero Hincapié, while Myles Lewis-Skelly provides another consistent left-back alternative for Mikel Arteta.

Arsenal's pursuit of their next multi-functional talent appears to be active, as Fabrizio Romano has verified that club representatives have dedicated "considerable time" monitoring Valdepeñas, commonly referred to as Valde.

A natural central defender who operates effectively on the left flank, Valde has yet to make his debut for Madrid's senior squad but has been named as an unused substitute once, receiving the call from Carlo Ancelotti in March for a 2–1 victory against Villarreal.

He frequently participates in first-team training sessions but divides most of his match time between Castilla and the C squad.

Real Madrid No Strangers to Selling Young Players

Valde remains contracted to Madrid through summer 2029 following his development being recognized with a fresh deal in October 2024, suggesting Arsenal may face challenges convincing Madrid to part ways.

Though Madrid typically welcomes offers for their developing players, they generally insist on including buy-back provisions. Smaller clubs often accept such terms, but Arsenal would be extremely reluctant to agree.

Arsenal's efforts might be complicated by lingering tensions with Madrid regarding another defender, William Saliba. Los Blancos had hoped to secure the Frenchman at a reduced fee in the coming period, but his commitment to a new extended deal has compelled Madrid to pursue alternative targets.

Liverpool's Ibrahima Konaté represents another Madrid objective, as they may prepare for significant defensive changes next summer given uncertainty surrounding the futures of David Alaba, Antonio Rüdiger and Raúl Asencio.

Valde aspires to secure first-team promotion but faces competition from numerous promising defensive talents at Madrid. Fellow 18-year-olds Joan Martínez and Diego Aguado are among those vying for opportunities.