Arsenal have opened negotiations to sign Cristhian Mosquera from Valencia, as the Gunners look to bolster their defensive options for the upcoming 2025–26 season. A deal worth around £17 million is being discussed, with the 20-year-old Spaniard now emerging as Mikel Arteta’s preferred choice over previous targets like Marc Guehi and Dean Huijsen.
Mosquera, who made his senior debut in 2022 and recently featured for Spain’s Under-21 side at the European Championships, has drawn attention from several top clubs, including Atletico Madrid and Villarreal. However, with just one year remaining on his contract at Valencia, Arsenal are confident of securing his signature.
Arteta is eager to reinforce the squad following injuries and potential exits in defence. Gabriel Magalhaes, who suffered a season-ending hamstring injury in April, was replaced by Jakub Kiwior, who is now being linked with a return to Serie A to join AC Milan. Although Jurrien Timber and Ben White are capable of covering at centre-back, Arsenal want additional depth to support first-choice pairing Saliba and Gabriel.
Alongside the pursuit of Mosquera, Arsenal are finalizing deals for Martin Zubimendi, Christian Norgaard, and Kepa Arrizabalaga, showing intent to strengthen across all areas of the pitch. Mosquera, if signed, would add young, versatile defensive quality to the squad—particularly valuable in a season that could be defined by squad depth and rotation.
Meanwhile, Arsenal continue to chase attacking reinforcements. Moves for Viktor Gyokeres and Benjamin Sesko are in the works, although negotiations are proving challenging. Anthony Gordon and Rodrygo are also being considered as wide options.
With preseason underway soon, the club aims to wrap up their transfer business early and ensure the new recruits integrate quickly into the squad.