Arsenal enjoyed a successful night in the Champions League as a late strike from Kai Havertz gives the Gunners the advantage heading into the second-leg at the Emirates.
But Arsenal have already started their plans for the next summer as they want to capitalize the window once again to build a strong squad.
Now, Mikel Arteta wants to build long-term stability at the back. The club are now looking at younger options.
At the same time, Gabriel Magalhaes remains a key figure. But there are growing concerns around his fitness.
He has dealt with injury problems this season and last term. Now at 28, signs of decline are starting to appear.
As a result, Arsenal are considering a long-term successor. The aim is to find someone who can partner William Saliba in the future.
Meanwhile, scouting work has already been done. The club have closely monitored multiple targets.
According to CaughtOffside, Arsenal are stepping up their interest. Their scouts have watched Victor Valdepenas and Jacobo Ramon several times.
The feedback from those reports has been very positive. Arteta is pushing for a young centre-back profile.
At the same time, competition for both players is building. Chelsea are also tracking Jacobo Ramon.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid hold strong control over his future with a buy-back clause and a 50 percent sell-on clause in the deal. That gives them a clear advantage in any future move.
As a result, any transfer could become more expensive. Ramon’s current club, Como, will look to maximise profit.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid have used similar strategies before. They are expected to trigger a buy-back clause for Nico Paz this summer.
However, their current squad situation could affect decisions. They signed Dean Huijsen last year and may not need another defender immediately.
Still, Arsenal are pushing forward with their plans, as the Gunners see both players as ideal long-term solutions.
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