Real Madrid teenager Victor Valdepenas made his debut at left-back for the first team in their La Liga win over Deportivo Alaves last weekend, putting in an impressive performance with Xabi Alonso describes him as a ‘fantastic’ player after the match.
Bild has reported that Valdepenas’ performances have also been noted in other parts of Europe, and that Arsenal, Bayer Leverkusen and Borussia Dortmund are all interested in signing him before his shares rise above a prohibitive limit.
Valdepenas has impressed in recent months under Alvaro Arbeloa at Real Madrid’s secondary side Castilla. He is obviously a central defender. He also excelled at left back with his versatility, physicality and ability on the ball, attracting many suitors.
It is unlikely that Valdepenas will go to Arsenal
Although Arsenal are interested in Victor Valdepenas and have an excellent project in the works, the 19-year-old is unlikely to opt for a move to the Emirates Stadium as it would potentially hamper his chances of playing in the first team.
Arsenal already have four brilliant centre-backs, alongside Myles-Lewis Skelly and Riccardo Calafiori at left-back. Therefore, Valdepenas face stiff competition for a place in Mikel Arteta’s squad, although a move to the Bundesliga may be on the cards.
Real Madrid have excellent relationships with Bayer Leverkusen and Borussia Dortmund, and with Valdepenas looking to build on their first-team experience, they could potentially loan him to one of the German sides, where Arsenal can continue to keep an eye on him.
If his progression continues as many expect, the Gunners could make an attempt to sign him in the future, when they need defenders, rather than now, where they don’t need more players at the back and won’t be choosing a youngster at that time.
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