While fans call for attacking signings, Arsenal are actively pursuing Valencia’s rising defensive talent, Cristhian Mosquera. The 21-year-old centre-back, valued at £17 million due to a modest release clause, is currently in talks for a potential summer move to the Emirates.
Mosquera, who is out of contract in 2026, has emerged as a key target for Mikel Arteta and new sporting director Andrea Berta as part of a broader defensive overhaul that could see up to four new arrivals. Arsenal have already had one bid turned down but remain optimistic that a deal will soon be finalized.
The Spanish-Colombian defender made his first-team debut for Valencia at just 17 and has since become a regular starter, making 70 La Liga appearances across the last two seasons. In 2024–25, he started 37 games, missing only one match due to suspension—a game that ended in a 7-1 loss to Barcelona, highlighting his importance.
Mosquera scored his first senior goal in a 2-0 win over Leganes and featured prominently in a 10-match unbeaten run that included a notable win over Real Madrid. He is known for his versatility across the backline, his 6’3″ frame, and defensive fundamentals like positioning and tackling.
While aerial duels remain a weakness—he ranks in the bottom 6% for success in such battles—he shines in ground challenges, recovering possession 5.15 times per game and ranking in the top 7% for dribblers tackled.
Internationally, Mosquera has represented Spain at every youth level and was part of the gold-winning squad at the Paris Olympics. Though eligible for Colombia, he has made 11 appearances for Spain’s Under-21s and remains on their radar.
If Arsenal seal the deal, Mosquera will become a promising long-term addition to a defence aiming to challenge for silverware in the 2025–26 campaign.