Arsenal have reportedly set their sights on a move for Real Madrid's teenage defender Victor Valdepenas, as their search for defensive reinforcements takes a new turn this January.
Gunners Miss Out on Key Target
The North London club's interest comes after they appear to have missed the boat on another highly-rated young defender, Jeremy Jacquet. The 20-year-old Frenchman, who shone for France's U19s at Euro 2024, is now seemingly Chelsea-bound, with the Blues already said to have agreed personal terms on a deal that could be worth around £56 million.
Who is Arsenal's New Target, Victor Valdepenas?
Shifting their focus, Arsenal's scouts have been keeping a close watch on 19-year-old Real Madrid prospect Victor Valdepenas. The Spaniard, who is comfortable at left-back or in central defence, made his senior debut for Los Blancos against Alaves last month and is tipped for a bright future at the Bernabeu.
Speaking to Real Madrid TV after his breakthrough, Valdepenas expressed his delight: ‘It’s a dream, every child’s dream. I’ve been dreaming about it since I started playing football. It’s impossible to explain how I feel.’ His emotional attachment to his boyhood club means any potential transfer is unlikely to happen before the summer, with the player showing no current desire to leave.
Why Arsenal Are Looking for Defensive Reinforcements
Mikel Arteta's need for a versatile, young defender is driven by issues within his current squad. While Arsenal have players for the positions Valdepenas covers, Riccardo Calafiori and Piero Hincapie have faced fitness struggles this season.
Furthermore, Myles Lewis-Skelly's form has dipped. The England international had a difficult game in the FA Cup win at Portsmouth and was subsequently dropped for the Carabao Cup tie against Chelsea and the Premier League draw at Nottingham Forest. He may feature against Inter Milan in the Champions League as Arsenal look to top their group.
Despite these concerns, it is believed Arsenal are unlikely to make any major signings in what remains of the January window, preferring to focus on the squad that is still competing on four fronts this season.
