Arsenal are reportedly keen to secure Victor Valdepenas from Real Madrid, but face competition in the race for the young defender.
According to Sport Bild, Real Madrid’s young defender Victor Valdepenas is attracting big interest in the market, with Arsenal chief among those who are keen. Borussia Dortmund and Bayer Leverkusen are also in the mix, as either of those teams will be eager to convince the 19-year-old prospect to make the switch.
Real Madrid is a club of intense competition within that squad, and getting a breakthrough, such as time on the pitch in La Liga, is a big thing for any youngster coming through the ranks. Florentino Perez has given opportunities to a few of the players coming through the Castilla side, but there have been far and few in recent years.
Gonzalo Garcia, for instance, felt like someone who deserves a chance following his displays a the Club World Cup, but he has been spending time on the bench far too often. In the most recent game against Alaves, Xabi Alonso gave young defender Victor Valdepenas his debut, with some quarters stating he could have a future at the club.
The reality with the 19-year-old Real Madrid breakout prospect is that Alonso was somewhat forced to hand Valdepenas his debut owing to injuries and suspensions to his key defenders. Once those senior stars return to action, the young defender might be relegated back to the Castilla ranks, which may not aid his long-term development.
Real Madrid are increasingly aware of the growing interest in the young defender, as the 19-year-old has Arsenal chasing for his signature. The Gunners are not alone as Borussia Dortmund and Bayer Leverkusen are also keen, with those three clubs ready to make their move.
Why are Arsenal chasing Victor Valdepenas?
The interest from Arsenal was present back in the summer, but they had other plans, such as bringing in someone with decent experience. Hence, the Gunners chose to sign Valencia star Cristhian Mosquera instead, with the move proving very popular within their fanbase, as the Spaniard has fitted in comfortably with the team.
Arsenal are still interested in Valdepenas, as Mikel Arteta likes to bring in promising defenders to his team. The 19-year-old Real Madrid breakout prospect is a centre-back, but can also feature as a left-back, although at the moment, the Gunners have enough options there. Hence, should they sign Valdepenas, he could be seen as a player for the future rather than the present.
