Real Madrid have done a fantastic job in recent years when it comes to signing young players from all around Europe and South America, and developing them into superstars. The club deserve a lot of credit for this, considering their reputation of signing finished articles or Galacticos. They have certainly changed their approach over the years and are reaping the benefits of it.
Arguably their best player this season has been Federico Valverde. The Uruguayan seems to have taken his game to the next level and nailed down his spot in the starting XI, whether that be as a midfielder or as a right winger.
But before Valverde was signed by Real Madrid from Penarol, it looks like he was very close to signing for Arsenal, who incidentally are infamous for missing out on some of the biggest stars in the game when they were youngsters.
It looks like the name of Real Madrid star can now be added to that already impressive list. As reported by AS (via Sport Witness), Valverde had ‘reached a verbal agreement’ with Arsenal when he was still at Penarol. There was a ‘verbal agreement’ with both parties and Uruguayan midfielder’s side gave their consent too, but nothing was signed, and a decision was made to wait until the end of the South American Under 17 Championship.
Arsenal had come very close to signing Valverde before Real Madrid swooped in
The South American Under 17 Championship would change everything as Valverde shined in the tournament and ultimately Real Madrid swooped in to sign him ahead of Arsenal.
It is a decision that has paid a lot of dividends over the years, including a Champions League-winning assist last season against Liverpool.
Recent rumours have suggested that clubs are ready to pay transfer fees around €100 million to sign Valverde but one would expect Real Madrid to hold on to him.