Real Madrid are not expected to make any additions during the winter transfer window, but departures are on the horizon. Endrick Felipe is set to be the first, with the Brazilian preparing to join Lyon on loan for the second half of the season. Another potential exit could involve recent first-team debutant Victor Valdepenas.
The 19-year-old defender made his senior debut during Real Madrid’s victory over Alaves last weekend. Xabi Alonso was forced to turn to Valdepenas due to the absences of Alvaro Carreras and Fran Garcia (both suspended), as well as Ferland Mendy, who was sidelined through injury. Valdepenas impressed on the occasion, but that may not be enough to guarantee his long-term future at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Arsenal have followed Valdepenas for some time, but according to BILD, Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund have now joined the race for the highly-rated youngster.
Real Madrid stance on a Valdepenas exit
Valdepenas is regarded as one of the standout talents within La Fabrica, which explains why he was trusted with a starting role at senior level. Xabi Alonso believes the defender has the potential to become a regular member of the first-team squad in the coming years.
Real Madrid are expected to strengthen the left-back position in the future, particularly with Fran Garcia and Ferland Mendy both seen as possible candidates to be moved on. In that context, Valdepenas is viewed internally as an important option for the long term.
Los Blancos have already rejected transfer offers for Valdepenas in the past, and following his first-team breakthrough, it appears even less likely that Arsenal or Borussia Dortmund will succeed in prising him away from the Spanish capital. However, if a deal were ever to be agreed, Real Madrid would almost certainly insist on an affordable buy-back clause, a strategy the club has regularly used to retain control over the development of their academy graduates.
Conclusion
Interest from top European clubs highlights Valdepenas’ rapid rise, but Real Madrid remain firmly in control of his future for now.
MadridistasZone comment:
Interest from elite clubs is a sign of progress, but patience and the right pathway will be just as important as any transfer decision.