Manchester United are reportedly evaluating a potential move for Real Madrid defender Victor Valdepeñas, as the Premier League club continues to track emerging defensive talents across Europe.
The interest follows United’s successful recruitment of Leny Yoro in 2024, when they beat Real Madrid to the Lille centre-back in a deal valued at around €62 million. While Yoro was widely expected to join Los Blancos, United moved quickly to secure his signature. Now, the club are once again being linked with a young Real Madrid prospect in Valdepeñas.
Although Leny Yoro has shown flashes of promise at Old Trafford, his recent performances have highlighted the need for depth and competition in United’s defence. The 20-year-old endured a difficult outing against Aston Villa, where he struggled to contain Morgan Rogers.
Despite maintaining confidence in Yoro’s development, United are believed to be exploring additional options for the future, with Valdepeñas emerging as a player of interest due to his age profile and versatility.
According to Defensa Central, Manchester United are one of several elite clubs monitoring Victor Valdepeñas, with Arsenal, Chelsea, Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, Juventus and Inter Milan also credited with interest.
Victor Valdepeñas, 19, is capable of operating both as a centre-back and at left-back, a quality that has drawn attention despite his limited senior experience. The defender is not actively seeking a move away from Real Madrid, where he remains committed to progressing through the club’s ranks.
Real Madrid’s Development Plans
Questions remain over Victor Valdepeñas’ pathway to consistent first-team football under Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso. The presence of Ferland Mendy, Fran García and Álvaro Carreras has restricted opportunities on the left side of defence.
To date, Victor Valdepeñas has made just one La Liga appearance, underlining both his raw potential and the challenge of breaking into a competitive squad.
Contract Situation and Market Value
Real Madrid are reportedly open to a strategic approach regarding Valdepeñas, potentially allowing a partial sale of the player’s rights while retaining a buy-back clause.
Standing at 6’2”, Valdepeñas is known for his physical strength, aerial presence, pace and impressive ball-striking ability. The Spain Under-19 international’s contract reportedly includes a €50 million release clause, according to AS Diario.
January Transfer Outlook for Victor Valdepeñas
Despite the growing interest, a January move for Valdepeñas appears unlikely. Manchester United are not expected to trigger a substantial release clause for a player with limited senior experience.
Furthermore, United’s immediate recruitment focus is understood to be elsewhere, with the club prioritising additions in attack and midfield during the winter window. While Victor Valdepeñas remains a highly rated long-term prospect, any move is more likely to be considered in the future rather than in the short term.
Read more:-