Arsenal step up pursuit of Real Madrid talent

Premier League leaders Arsenal are giving increasing consideration to a move for Real Madrid starlet Víctor Valdepeñas.

This comes amid an ongoing scouting mission on the part of the Gunners for the Spanish defender.

Mikel Arteta is understood to be a keen admirer of Valdepeñas, eager to bring his fellow countryman to north London in the near future.

As per a report from Sami Mokbel of the BBC:

‘Arsenal hold interest in Real Madrid teenager Victor Valdepenas. Spain U19 defender watched extensively.’

The board at The Emirates are yet to make an official approach for the 19-year-old, but have held internal discussions behind the scenes regarding as much.

Valdepeñas, for his part, is a talented defender, capable of taking to the pitch at either centre-back, or left-back.

He was afforded a first-ever senior appearance for Real Madrid back in December, featuring from the off in a 2-1 La Liga victory over Deportivo Alavés.

Conor Laird – GSFN