Arsenal are primarily interested in a summer move for Real Madrid’s Victor Valdepenas, though other clubs have explored a potential January deal.
James McNicholas reports for The Athletic that a number of European clubs have explored a potential January move for Real Madrid teenager Victor Valdepenas, but Arsenal’s interest in him primarily relates to the summer.
McNicholas adds that a deal would be difficult to pull off, as Real are keen to hold onto the player.
With any luck, that means he won’t be on the move before the end of this week, giving Arsenal their chance to make a summer bid.
Sami Mokbel reported for the BBC last week that Arsenal hold an interest in Valdepenas, heavily scouting him in recent months with a view to a future move for the defender.
The Gunners haven’t made a formal offer yet, but they have held internal discussions about a potential approach.
Mokbel added that it remains to be seen whether Arsenal go for Valdepenas now or in the summer, assuming they do decide to finalise their interest. The player has a €50m (£43.3m) release clause, for what it’s worth.
But McNicholas’ report makes it sound as though the Gunners aren’t readying an offer to submit in the next few days.
19-year-old centre-back Valdepenas can also play at left-back, which is generally a good sign when it comes to players Mikel Arteta might target.
Valdepenas has made one appearance for Real Madrid’s first team, debuting in December, but he largely plays for Real Madrid Castilla. Internationally, he plays for the Spain u19s.
The youngster has a contract until 2029, so barring a club activating the release clause Real Madrid are in a pretty strong negotiating position.