Arsenal Target Two Real Madrid Academy Products as Gabriel Replacement Plan Takes Shape
The Gunners are pursuing Victor Valdepenas and Jacobo Ramon in proactive defensive rebuild, but Chelsea competition and Madrid's control complicate both deals
Arsenal have identified Victor Valdepenas and Jacobo Ramon as their top targets to eventually replace Gabriel Magalhaes at centre-back, with the club stepping up their interest in both Real Madrid academy products ahead of the summer transfer window.
The Gunners' scouts have watched both defenders multiple times this season, delivering positive reports that have convinced Mikel Arteta to pursue a young centre-back who can partner William Saliba long-term.
Why Arsenal Need to Plan for Life After Gabriel Now
Gabriel Magalhaes remains one of Arsenal's most important players, but at 28 years old with recurring injury problems, the club recognises the need for succession planning.
The Brazilian has struggled with fitness issues both this season and last term, missing crucial matches and showing what sources describe as early signs of physical decline.
The Timing Tells Its Own Story
Arsenal's decision to actively pursue replacements now, rather than waiting for Gabriel's contract situation to become urgent, reveals both ambition and concern within the club.
Arsenal are looking very closely at Valdepenas and Ramon this summer. Their scouts have watched them several times and the feedback has been really positive. Arteta wants a young centre-back that can eventually become Gabriel's replacement to partner Saliba.
This proactive approach mirrors how elite clubs operate - identifying and securing successors before decline becomes obvious, ensuring seamless transitions rather than panic purchases.
The Real Madrid Factor: How Los Blancos Control Both Deals
Real Madrid's influence over both targets adds layers of complexity to Arsenal's pursuit. Victor Valdepenas remains a Real Madrid player, while Jacobo Ramon was sold to Como last summer with carefully structured clauses that keep Madrid in control.
Como Deal Structure Favours Madrid
The Ramon transfer includes two crucial elements that give Real Madrid significant leverage:
- A buy-back clause allowing Madrid first refusal if they want to re-sign him
- A 50% sell-on clause that will substantially inflate any transfer fee
This structure means Como must demand a premium price to make any profit from Ramon's sale, potentially pricing out interested clubs or making the deal uneconomical.
The Nico Paz Precedent
Real Madrid have form for activating buy-back clauses on their academy products. They sold Nico Paz to Como with similar terms and are set to trigger his return clause this summer.
However, Madrid's recent signing of Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth suggests they may not need another young centre-back immediately, potentially leaving the door open for Arsenal.
Chelsea Competition Could Spark Bidding War for Ramon
Chelsea's interest in Jacobo Ramon predates Arsenal's, with the Blues considering him as one of several defensive options for their summer rebuild.
Sources confirm Chelsea remain actively interested, setting up a potential bidding war that could benefit Como and Real Madrid through the sell-on clause.
Price Inflation Risk
The combination of Premier League competition and Madrid's 50% sell-on creates a perfect storm for price inflation. If Arsenal and Chelsea enter a bidding war, Como would need to demand significantly more than Ramon's market value to profit.
For example, if Ramon's true value sits around £20 million, Como would need to sell for £30 million just to net £15 million after Madrid's cut - less than they might expect for a player of his quality without the clause.
What Happens Next
Arsenal's defensive succession planning will accelerate as the season concludes, with formal approaches for both targets expected once the transfer window opens. The club must balance their long-term planning with immediate needs, particularly if Gabriel's injury issues persist.
Real Madrid hold the key to both deals. Their decision on whether to pursue Valdepenas' development or cash in, and whether to activate Ramon's buy-back clause, will determine Arsenal's negotiating position. The Gunners may need to move quickly and decisively to avoid being outmanoeuvred by either Chelsea or Madrid themselves.
SportSignals is an independent publication. Views expressed are our own.
Sources
This article is based on reporting from the publications above. Specific facts and quotes are credited inline where used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are Arsenal targeting to replace Gabriel Magalhaes?
Arsenal have identified Victor Valdepenas and Jacobo Ramon, both Real Madrid academy products, as their top targets to eventually replace Gabriel at centre-back. Scouts have delivered positive reports on both defenders.
Why does Arsenal need to replace Gabriel now?
Gabriel is 28 years old and has struggled with recurring injury problems this season and last term. Arsenal are planning proactively for succession rather than waiting for his decline to become obvious.
What complications exist with signing Jacobo Ramon?
Real Madrid sold Ramon to Como with a buy-back clause and 50% sell-on clause. This means Como must demand premium prices to profit, while Madrid retain control over any potential transfer.
Are other clubs interested in these Arsenal targets?
Yes, Chelsea are also showing competing interest in both defenders. This could spark a bidding war and drive up transfer fees for Arsenal's targets.
