Cristhian Mosquera
Image credit: Getty Images
Valencia captain José Gayà has spoken out about the future of highly-rated defender Cristhian Mosquera, following reports that Arsenal have had an opening bid for the 22-year-old rejected.
Mosquera has emerged as a priority target for the Gunners, who are actively looking to reinforce their backline during the summer transfer window. Despite having just 12 months remaining on his current contract, Valencia are reluctant to part ways with the right-footed centre-back, and are holding firm in negotiations.
Arsenal remain undeterred and are expected to return with an improved offer. The north London club are believed to be impressed by Mosquera’s versatility, as he is capable of playing both as a central defender and at right-back. He recently featured prominently for Spain at the Under-21 European Championship, helping his side reach the quarter-finals before falling to eventual finalists England.
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Mosquera’s stock continues to rise, with several top clubs including Aston Villa, Bournemouth, Bayer Leverkusen, Atlético Madrid, and RB Leipzig also expressing interest. However, Valencia are determined to keep hold of their talented youngster., along with fellow academy products Javi Guerra and César Tárrega.
Valencia captain Jose Gaya (Image credit: Getty Images)
Speaking to Spanish radio outletÀ Punt, Gayà voiced his hope that the club can retain the trio. “I would be delighted if all three could stay because I think they can give a lot this new season and bring a lot of joy to the fans,” he said. “As of today, unless there’s any breaking news, I think all three of them are still with us, and I hope it continues like this, and they continue to grow as players.”
Valencia are currently focused on tying Mosquera down to a new long-term deal and are not actively looking to sell. However, complications may arise, as the defender is understood to have already agreed personal terms with Arsenal, putting pressure on the Spanish club to act quickly.
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Earlier this month, Mosquera’s agent, Sergio Barila, confirmed that his client remains “very happy” at Valencia. He also disclosed that discussions over a contract extension were ongoing. The club recently secured long-awaited funding to complete a new stadium, which they hope will boost their ambitions to retain key talents like Mosquera.
A product of the Valencia academy, Mosquera joined the club at age 12 and has been regarded as one of their brightest prospects. Former youth coach Miguel Ángel Angulo described him as “physically dominant, technically sound, strong in the air, and remarkably mature for his age.”
After helping Spain win gold at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, Cristhian Mosquera enjoyed a breakout season, making 41 appearances for Valencia in all competitions. He also played the full 90 minutes in Spain’s quarter-final defeat to England at the Under-21 Euros earlier this month.
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