Arsenal have taken a significant step towards signing Cristhian Mosquera after reaching a full agreement on personal terms with the Valencia centre-back.
The 21-year-old is now firmly on the Gunners’ radar following a strong season in La Liga and an eye-catching campaign with Spain at the European Under-21 Championship.
Mikel Arteta is keen to strengthen his defensive options this summer, and Mosquera is viewed as a long-term investment who can develop behind William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal’s opening bid of €14m (£12m) has been turned down by Valencia, but talks remain active, with a second offer now in the works.
The North London club are prepared to raise their bid to more than €20m (£17m) in an attempt to secure the player ahead of rival interest from elsewhere in Europe.
Valencia remain reluctant to sell but face a delicate situation, with Mosquera entering the final year of his contract and no renewal agreed despite months of dialogue.
The Spanish side are keen to keep him but know they risk losing the defender for free next summer if no breakthrough is reached before the end of the transfer window.
Mosquera has not closed the door on renewing with Valencia, but he is also open to a move and is said to be attracted by Arsenal’s sporting project and the opportunity to compete in the Champions League.
The Gunners’ strong track record in player development under Arteta is another factor said to be weighing heavily in their favour.
Mosquera made 41 appearances for Valencia last season and was a regular in Spain’s Under-21 squad during the summer, helping them reach the quarter-finals before defeat to England.
He is expected to return from his post-tournament break later than most of his teammates, and his situation is expected to move quickly once he reports back.
Valencia captain José Gayà has expressed hope that Mosquera will stay, stating he wants to see the youngster continue his development at the club.
However, with Arsenal pushing hard and talks advancing behind the scenes, a move to the Emirates is growing increasingly likely.
A second formal offer is imminent, and while Valencia are holding firm on their valuation, Arsenal are optimistic of reaching a deal in the coming weeks.
