Real Madrid transfer news: Arsenal ‘eyeing’ move for Los Blancos youngster but departure would be a surprise
Arsenal are reportedly seriously considering signing Real Madrid defender Victor Valdepenas during next summer’s transfer window.
The 19-year-old made his first-team debut for Los Blancos against Alaves on Sunday, with the club’s serious defensive problems opening the door for the youngster.
Valdepenas played 78 minutes of what turned out to be a 2-1 victory for Real Madridand he was congratulated by head coach Xabi Alonso after the clash.
“We conceded the only time Valdepenas made a mistake, because in all the others he was very precise and played very well, and Carlos Vicente took full advantage of a great pass,” Alonso told reporters after the match.
“As I said before, Valdepenas made his debut and I congratulate him from here, not only for his debut but for the match he played. He competed and was very stable. Making your debut for Real Madrid is always a special day.”
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Arsenal ‘excited’ about Valdepenas deal in 2026
The Spaniard has a contract at the Bernabeu until June 2029, but according to ESPN kicks outArsenal will try to secure his services next summer.
The report claims the Gunners are in the mix with the likes of Borussia Dortmund and Bayer Leverkusen, with Mikel Arteta’s side set to make a move.
Valdepenas is again in the Real Madrid squad for Wednesday’s Copa del Rey clash against CF Talaveraand he could get another start at left back.
“It’s a dream, every child’s dream. I’ve been dreaming about it since I played football and today I was able to make it come true. It’s impossible to explain how I feel, I’m really happy, to be honest,” said the defender. RealMadrid Television after making his debut.
“At first I was nervous, I’m not going to lie to you, but my teammates calmed me down and I’m grateful to them and the captains. It’s not every day you make your debut for Real Madrid, and especially as a starter, but I was able to handle it well thanks to everyone.”
5+12 – Victor Valdepeñas “Valde” ?? became the first player to debut @realmadriden In @LaLigaEN
with 5+ tackles and 12+ duels since Isco (5 and 24) and Dani Carvajal (5 and 13) in August 2013 against Betis. War#AlavesRealMadrid ?? https://t.co/bSHgIXlY23 pic.twitter.com/p3x973nsgL– OptaJose (@OptaJose) December 14, 2025
Valdepenas impressed on Real Madrid debut
“This shirt goes in my room. I’m going to frame it there so I can see it every day and remember today. I’ve been here since I was a kid and we’ve worked a lot. We have to be consistent and believe in it.”
It would be a surprise to see Real Madrid sell Valdepenas given the promise he has shown in the first team, while the youngster has also been a good player for Real Madrid Castilla, scoring twice and registering one assist in 28 appearances.
Arsenal’s interest is believed to have started before the defender made his first-team debut, and it would surely now be much harder to convince Los Blancos to sell.