Arsenal - Andrea Berta
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal are actively pursuing a deal to sign highly rated Valencia centre-back Cristhian Mosquera, according to a report by trusted insiders David Ornstein and James McNicholas ofThe Athletic. The 20-year-old Spain Under-21 international has emerged as a key target as the Gunners look to reinforce their defensive ranks ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
Mosquera has earned widespread recognition for his consistent displays in La Liga, making 90 senior appearances for Valencia since debuting in January 2022. Last season, he was a cornerstone of the Spanish club’s backline, featuring in 41 matches, 37 of which he completed the full 90 minutes, highlighting his durability, maturity, and tactical intelligence.
With Arsenal aiming to mount another serious Premier League title challenge, Mosquera is seen as an ideal candidate to provide depth and competition for Mikel Arteta’s preferred central defensive pairing of William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães. His profile fits Arteta’s tactical demands perfectly, a right-footed, athletic centre-back comfortable in a high line and aggressive pressing system.
READ MORE: Myles Lewis-Skelly signs long-term contract extension with Arsenal
Born in Alicante to Colombian parents, Mosquera is also eligible to represent Colombia but has chosen to rise through the Spanish national youth system. He is currently involved with Spain’s U21 squad at the European Championship, where his performances have continued to draw interest from top European clubs.
Cristhian Mosquera
Cristhian Mosquera (Image credit: Getty Images)
Arsenal’s move for Mosquera is part of a broader recruitment strategy being overseen by newly appointed sporting director Andrea Berta, who is also spearheading pursuits of midfield targets Martin Zubimendi of Real Sociedad and Brentford captain Christian Norgaard. With Takehiro Tomiyasu sidelined by injury and defensive cover thin, Arteta and Berta have prioritised bolstering the backline this summer.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE NOW ARSENAL WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
Valencia’s precarious financial situation could play a crucial role in the outcome of negotiations. Mosquera’s estimated market value stands at €13.4 million, according to Football Transfers, though that figure could rise depending on interest from rival suitors.
Arsenal’s continued emphasis on youth and long-term squad planning is also evident in their recent contract extensions for academy stars Myles Lewis-Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri. The pursuit of Mosquera aligns with that vision, adding a young, battle-tested defender who can compete immediately and grow into a future cornerstone of the team.
Should a deal be completed, Mosquera would offer vital cover, particularly on the right side of central defence, where he excelled for Valencia. His potential arrival would further strengthen Arsenal’s ambitions across domestic and European competitions in the coming season.
NEXT ARTICLE: One Arsenal star likely unhappy with Christian Norgaard’s arrival