Valdepenas’ appeal to Arsenal is rooted in Arteta’s long-standing preference for defenders who can operate across multiple positions. The Gunners boss has built his back line around adaptability, valuing players capable of shifting roles without compromising structure or control.
Ben White arrived as a centre-back and has since become an established right-back. Riccardo Calafiori, initially known for his work centrally, has been repurposed primarily on the left. Piero Hincapié, on loan from Bayer Leverkusen, has offered cover both at centre-half and full-back, while Jurrien Timber has featured across the defensive line, even if he is now largely seen as first-choice on the right.
Valdepenas, comfortable both centrally and out wide, fits that profile perfectly. His ability to read the game and adjust tactically would align with Arteta’s emphasis on fluid defensive systems. For now, Real Madrid remain firmly in control. Valdepenas’ long contract, combined with Alonso’s public endorsement, gives the club leverage and time. Yet Arsenal’s growing reputation for developing young defenders into elite performers means this is a story unlikely to fade.