Arsenal are showing significant interest in Real Madrid defender Victor Valdepenas, competing with Eintracht Frankfurt for the 19-year-old’s signature, according to reports from Sky Sports Germany. Valdepenas, a centre-half who can also feature at left-back, has impressed since making his senior debut for Los Blancos earlier this season under former manager Xabi Alonso.
The Spain U19 international possesses notable physical attributes, standing at 6ft 2in and demonstrating both speed and strength in tackling. He is also comfortable in possession, capable of breaking opposition presses with driving runs. Valdepenas’ current contract with Real Madrid extends for another three years, but the club may be open to a summer transfer.
Frankfurt have reportedly initiated concrete talks with Valdepenas’ representatives, however Arsenal are mounting a ‘fierce’ challenge to secure his services. Fabrizio Romano has confirmed Arsenal are ‘monitoring’ the situation and that the player is on their ‘shortlist’ of defensive targets. Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta is prepared to move ‘decisively’ if Valdepenas indicates a willingness to leave the Bernabeu.
Valdepenas is one of several Madrid players currently being tracked by Arsenal, with the Gunners also linked with attacking talent Arda Guler and midfielder Eduardo Camavinga. A previous interest in Jacobo Ramon has also been reported, though Madrid retain a buy-back clause for the Como centre-back. Valdepenas has a reported release clause of €50 million (£43m). The potential arrival of Valdepenas would bolster Arsenal’s defensive options, providing competition and depth within the squad.
