Arsenal are reportedly showing 'special interest' in Real Madrid youngster Victor Valdepenas and exploring a potential move for Levante forward Karl Etta Eyong alongside Man Utd
Isaac Seelochan Senior Sports Journalist
07:00, 25 Jan 2026
Karl Etta Eyong celebrating
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Arsenal and Manchester United could do battle for Karl Etta Eyong(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
Arsenal are dreaming about claiming their first Premier League crown since 2004 as they perch at the summit with 16 fixtures remaining. Mikel Arteta's side will look to sustain their positive momentum when they welcome Manchester United to the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.
The Gunners are flourishing both on home soil and across Europe, having effortlessly swept aside Inter Milan in midweek. They've also claimed maximum points from all seven Champions League encounters and are practically guaranteed to top the league table.
Michael Carrick's United pose the threat this weekend, rolling into north London off the back of a 2-0 derby victory over bitter rivals Manchester City last Saturday.
The Red Devils did Arsenal a solid that afternoon, though Arteta's charges couldn't fully exploit the opportunity, managing only a goalless stalemate against relegation-threatened Nottingham Forest on the same day.
It's been a subdued transfer window for Arsenal following such extensive summer recruitment. However, speculation continues to swirl around the Gunners, and The Daily Star has looked some of the latest whispers below...
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Man Utd battle
Arsenal and Manchester United are reportedly exploring a potential move for Levante forward, Karl Etta Eyong.
Caughtoffside claim that the 22-year-old is drawn to the prospect of linking up with Arteta's squad. Given they rank amongst the globe's most prestigious clubs, he may seek to realise his potential alongside them.
Karl Etta Eyong challenges for the ball
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Levante forward Karl Etta Eyong has been linked with Arsenal(Image: Getty Images)
Arsenal have consistently been challenging for silverware, and any emerging talent will be enticed by the opportunity to join their ranks. Eyong has netted six times in all competitions this season.
'Interest' in Madrid star
Arsenal have reportedly received encouragement regarding their rumoured pursuit of Real Madrid youngster, Victor Valdepenas.
Recent speculation has suggested that Valdepenas has emerged as a potential target for the club's summer shopping list. The 19-year-old made his debut for Los Blancos last month and is held in high regard by the Spanish powerhouses - which could complicate a potential transfer.
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Reports indicate a £44m release clause has been inserted into the fresh terms he penned recently, with that deal running until 2029. Elsewhere, Football365 claim that Xabi Alonso's departure from Madrid has 'damaged' the defender's prospects.
It is suggested he feels 'let down' by new manager Alvaro Arbeloa amid 'keen interest' from Arsenal. Valdepenas has reportedly been presented with opportunities to switch clubs before the January window closes. It is claimed that leading his list of admirers are Arsenal.
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