Arsenal Closely Monitoring Real Madrid’s Rising Star Amid Interest from Bundesliga Giants

Arsenal closely monitor Víctor Valdepeñas as Real Madrid youngster attracts Dortmund and Leverkusen attention.

Arsenal are keeping a watchful eye on Real Madrid’s promising young defender, Víctor Valdepeñas. The 19‑year‑old Spaniard has already drawn interest from Borussia Dortmund and Bayer Leverkusen as he begins to make his mark at senior level. According to ESPN, Arsenal are among the clubs are closely monitoring Víctor Valdepeñas’ transfer.

The 19-year-old recently made his senior debut for Real Madrid, a milestone that has only heightened interest from across Europe. Arsenal see him as a long-term defensive investment who fits Mikel Arteta’s preference for technically secure, versatile defenders.

Buy Arsenal's 2025–26 Home Kit through the ArsenalTalks Shop

Click this link to buy the new 2025–26 Arsenal home kit through our ArsenalTalks Shop.

Born on October 20, 2006, Víctor Valdepeñas Talavera—commonly known as Valde—plays primarily as a centre-back but also operates comfortably at left-back. At 1.88m tall and left-footed, he combines physical presence with composure in possession, qualities that have accelerated his rise through Real Madrid’s academy.

After a brief spell with Leganés, Valdepeñas returned to Real Madrid in 2022 and quickly became a key figure for Real Madrid Castilla under Álvaro Arbeloa. During the 2025–26 season, he logged 888 minutes in the Primera Federación, helping Castilla sit fourth after 16 matches. His progress also earned him recognition with Spain’s Under-19 national team.

Despite an estimated market value of around €550,000, many scouts expect that figure to climb rapidly given his development curve. Real Madrid tied him down until June 2029, which strengthens their negotiating position but does not rule out a future move.

First-team debut under Xabi Alonso

Valdepeñas made his La Liga debut on December 15, 2025, starting in Real Madrid’s 2–1 win over Alavés under new manager Xabi Alonso. Although a mistake led to the equaliser, the teenager responded well and showed maturity beyond his years.

Alonso praised his attitude and performance after the match, highlighting his composure and competitive edge. Valdepeñas later admitted he felt nervous but credited his teammates for helping him settle. His inclusion in the squad for the following Copa del Rey tie reinforced Alonso’s confidence in him.

Arsenal continue to plan beyond the immediate title challenge and remain active in scouting elite young talent. Valdepeñas appeals because of his left-footed balance, positional flexibility, and suitability for Arteta’s build-up-focused system.

With William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães established as the first-choice pairing, Arsenal view Valdepeñas as a future option who could develop gradually while providing depth, particularly on the left side of defence.

Bundesliga competition intensifies

Borussia Dortmund and Bayer Leverkusen also track Valdepeñas closely. Dortmund’s reputation for accelerating young careers could offer him a clearer short-term pathway, while Leverkusen’s recent domestic and European success adds further appeal.

Real Madrid expect interest to grow ahead of the summer but remain calm for now. Valdepeñas stays focused on earning more opportunities in Madrid, although limited first-team minutes could eventually push him toward a new challenge.

A January move looks unlikely, but the summer window could prove decisive if Arsenal or their German rivals formalise interest. Arsenal’s behind-the-scenes monitoring reflects a wider strategy to secure elite prospects before their value explodes.

Whether Valdepeñas breaks through at the Bernabéu or moves elsewhere, his upward trajectory continues. The Víctor Valdepeñas Arsenal transfer situation remains one to watch closely in 2026.

Want more Arsenal updates? Visit our homepage.