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Analysis
- 45 minutes ago
Real Madrid make HUGE transfer decision after Arsenal approach
Cameron Smith
- 22 Dec 2025 13:16 GMT
- 6 min read
News
Real Madrid have inserted a €50 million release clause in the contract of academy starlet Victor Valdepenas amid significant transfer interest from Arsenal.
The 19-year-old has been a regular for Real Madrid Castilla so far this season and he was rewarded with a senior Los Blancos debut against Alaves last weekend.
The versatile defender, who is capable of playing at centre-back or left-back, was then subsequently named in Real Madrid’s matchday squad for their Copa del Rey clash versus CF Talavera on Wednesday, although he didn’t feature.
Valdepenas is regarded extremely highly by the Bernabeu hierarchy, however his development in the Real Madrid academy is being closely watched by a number of clubs across Europe, with Arsenal, Bayer Leverkusen and Borussia Dortmund all understood to be interested in finalising a deal for his signature.
The Spain U19 international still has over three-and-a-half years remaining on his current contract with his boyhood club, although AS have confirmed that he has now been rewarded with a significant pay rise thanks to his recent form.
It’s also reported that Real Madrid have added a €50m release clause to Valdepenas’ deal as they look to fend off the attention of Arsenal and several other top European clubs.
Furthermore, AS claim that Los Blancos had already reached an agreement over fresh terms with the 19-year-old before his senior debut against Alaves or his appearance in the club’s matchday squad to face Manchester City in the Champions League.
Victor Valdepenas unlikely to join Arsenal
With a move for Valdepenas now unlikely, Arsenal may be forced to identify an alternative transfer target as they continue to search for defensive reinforcements despite the summer arrivals of Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapie.
The Gunners have also been linked with January moves for Antoine Semenyo and Ayyoub Bouaddi, however both players are wanted by a plethora of Premier League clubs and a major transfer battle is expected to take place next month.
Meanwhile, Mikel Arteta’s side are instead focusing on finalising contract extension agreements with star trio Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice and Jurrien Timber.
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