Serie A side step up pursuit of Real Madrid youngster and Arsenal target | OneFootball

Serie A side step up pursuit of Real Madrid youngster and Arsenal target | OneFootball

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Siempre Madrid

·4 July 2026

Serie A side step up pursuit of Real Madrid youngster and Arsenal target

Article image:Serie A side step up pursuit of Real Madrid youngster and Arsenal target

Real Madrid have struggled to blood products from La Fabrica into the senior team over recent years, but they have become highly successful in selling them on to other top clubs in Europe. The production line at Valdebebas is operating successfully, and has now become a regular visit for scouts.

The success stories of Nico Paz, Rafa Marin, Chema Andres and Jacobo Ramon have alerted many clubs to the possibility of getting a talented youngster on the cheap, due to Los Blancos policy of selling low and then retaining a sell-on fee. Como, who signed both Paz and Ramon, in particular have taken an interest. The next to depart could be Victor Valdepenas, who made his debut under Xabi Alonso in December at left-back.


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Valdepenas, who can at left-back or centre-back, is blessed with plenty of pace, and was attracting interest even last summer before his senior debut. As reported by Gianluca di Marzio, and carried by MD, Serie A side Bologna are interested in signing him. At 19, and with three years left on his contract, it would be no surprise to see Real Madrid cash in on Valdepenas, who already has plenty of experience with Castilla, and is probably ready for the jump up in level. Unless Jose Mourinho makes it clear he will use Valdepenas, he may also want more chances.

Arsenal and Borussia Dortmund have previously shown interest

Valdepenas is unlikely to be short of options this summer though, with a number of big clubs having previously enquired about him. Last summer Borussia Dortmund held talks with Valdepenas, and for a significant portion of this season, Arsenal have been said to be following his progress. Valdepenas may well have a pick of destinations.

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