The summer transfer window may be long shut, but Arsenal’s scouting department hasn’t slowed down one bit.
Andrea Berta oversaw a huge recruitment drive during the last window — bringing in eight new players and transforming Mikel Arteta’s squad depth into something many rival fans now describe as “frightening.”
Despite that, Arsenal are unlikely to make major first-team additions in January. Instead, their focus is shifting toward the academy, where the club believes its true long-term success lies.
Arsenal Push to Strengthen Academy With Real Madrid Talent
In recent years, Hale End has become one of Europe’s most productive talent factories, developing stars like Bukayo Saka, Emile Smith Rowe, Ethan Nwaneri, Myles Lewis-Skelly, and Max Dowman.
Now, Arsenal are looking to continue that trend by targeting one of Spain’s brightest prospects.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the Gunners have their eyes on Real Madrid youngster Víctor Valdepeñas, commonly known as Valde. Romano revealed on the Here We Go podcast that Arsenal scouts have been tracking the teenager for several months.
“Arsenal have been monitoring him for a while now,” Romano said. “He’s highly rated at Real Madrid, a Spanish centre-back from their youth setup. It won’t be easy, because Real Madrid players rarely want to leave, but Valde is definitely on Arsenal’s list.”
Who is Víctor Valdepeñas?
Valdepeñas is an 18-year-old central defender currently playing for Real Madrid Castilla under Álvaro Arbeloa. He has already been called up to the senior Real Madrid squad once, although he didn’t feature on that occasion.
Spanish outlet Marca recently described Valde as a “physical marvel” due to his extraordinary intensity and work rate. While naturally a centre-back, he is also capable of playing at left-back or wing-back, making him an attractive option for versatile defensive depth.
The major challenge for Arsenal? Valdepeñas is under contract until 2029, and convincing Real Madrid to part ways with one of their prized academy talents will likely prove difficult.
Will Arsenal Make a Move?
Arsenal’s strategy under Edu Gaspar and Andrea Berta has been clear — build for the future while maintaining a competitive present. Even if a deal for Valde doesn’t materialize immediately, the club’s determination to stockpile elite youth talent is obvious.
If they can pull this one off, Hale End might soon welcome another star-in-the-making from Spain.
