Arsenal is in talks to sign Cristhian Mosquera as manager. Mikel Arteta intensifies the club’s transfer activity ahead of the 2025/26 season. The 20-year-old Valencia defender has emerged as a key target to bolster Arsenal’s backline, with multiple reports confirming that negotiations are at an advanced stage.
The Gunners have made securing defensive reinforcements a priority, especially with Takehiro Tomiyasu’s ongoing fitness issues and the need for quality rotation behind first-choice pairing William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes.
Mosquera, a Spain Under-21 international, has impressed with his consistency and maturity, having played 90 minutes in 37 of Valencia’s 38 La Liga games last season. His ability to feature both as a centre-back and right-back offers Arteta crucial versatility as he looks to build a more balanced squad.
Mosquera agrees on personal terms as clubs negotiate the fee
Spanish defender Cristhian Mosquera has reportedly agreed on personal terms with Arsenal and has been given his green light to join the Premier League side. Renowned transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano confirmed that Mosquera is “keen on the move” and has been presented with Arsenal’s long-term project under Arteta.
Valencia are now in direct discussions with the Gunners over the transfer fee. While no official agreement has been reached yet between the clubs, the talks are said to be progressing positively.
Mosquera’s defensive profile appeals to Arteta
Standing at 6ft 3in (191cm), Mosquera is known for his calmness under pressure and intelligent defensive positioning. While not overly aggressive, his tackle success rate of 72.6% ranks him among La Liga’s best-performing defenders. He also boasts a high passing accuracy of 91.2%, highlighting his ability to contribute to Arsenal’s possession-based style of play.
According to football data analyst Thom Harris, Mosquera has been a standout in Spain’s top flight since stepping up to replace Gabriel Paulista at Valencia. “He rarely commits fouls and is confident in sweeping up danger. His reading of the game makes him a low-risk yet high-reward investment,” Harris noted.
Arsenal’s broader summer strategy comes into focus
The Arsenal is in talks to sign Cristhian Mosquera. development comes as part of a broader recruitment push that includes imminent signings of Christian Norgaard from Brentford and Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea. Arsenal have also reached an agreement with Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi, who was in London last week to finalise his move.
While adding a top striker remains on the agenda, Arteta and Sporting Director Andrea Berta are focused on shoring up every area of the squad. After a disappointing end to the 2024/25 campaign, which saw the Gunners falter in the Premier League title race and fall to PSG in the Champions League semifinals, Arsenal’s leadership is determined to build a team with greater squad depth and mental resilience.
Why Arsenal needs Mosquera now
With Saliba making 51 appearances and Gabriel playing 42 last season, Arteta had to rely heavily on his first-choice centre-back duo. Other options like Jurrien Timber, Jakub Kiwior, and Ben White have had to fill in where necessary, but none offer the same commanding presence or consistent performance level.
Mosquera’s arrival would provide valuable cover and allow for better squad rotation in what promises to be another demanding campaign across multiple competitions. Importantly, the 20-year-old has room to develop into a top-level defender, making this not just a depth signing but a strategic investment for the future.
Third time lucky for Arsenal’s defensive wishlist
This summer isn’t Arsenal’s first attempt at securing a promising centre-back. In January, the Gunners tried to sign Brazilian teenager Vitor Reis, who ultimately chose Manchester City. Dean Huijsen was also considered before opting for a return to Real Madrid from Bournemouth.
With Arsenal in talks to sign Cristhian Mosquera, the club is hoping it will be third time lucky, finally landing a young, physically dominant, and technically sound defender who fits the club’s profile and project.
Final steps before completion
Reports from Spain suggest there is already an agreement in principle between Mosquera and Arsenal. The final hurdle remains agreeing on a fee with Valencia, who are open to selling but will demand a fair valuation given Mosquera’s contract and market potential.
If completed, the deal would mark another bold step by Arsenal to consolidate their position as one of England’s elite teams and address the shortcomings that hampered them last season.
As fans await official confirmation, it’s clear that Arsenal is in talks to sign Cristhian Mosquera, signaling a proactive and purposeful start to a vital summer for the Gunners.
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