Arsenal’s pursuit of Valencia defender **Christian Mosquera** is intensifying, with transfer expert **Fabrizio Romano** confirming that the highly-rated centre-back has his heart set on a move to North London. Despite Valencia offering Mosquera a new contract, the 21-year-old remains committed to joining Mikel Arteta’s project at the Emirates Stadium.
The Gunners had an opening bid of **€14 million rejected** by Valencia, who are holding out for a higher fee. However, Arsenal are expected to return with an improved offer in the coming days, with personal terms **already agreed** between the club and the player.
### Player Focused on Arsenal
Mosquera’s desire to join Arsenal has been described as unwavering. He sees the move as the ideal next step in his career, drawn by the opportunity to work under Arteta, develop alongside elite defenders like **William Saliba** and **Gabriel Magalhães**, and compete in the Premier League and Champions League.
According to reports, **Mosquera has turned down a contract extension** from Valencia that would have seen his salary rise significantly. However, his ambition to test himself in England and be part of one of Europe’s most exciting young squads has taken priority.
Arsenal’s project — centred on youth, technical excellence, and long-term growth — appears perfectly aligned with Mosquera’s own aspirations.
### Arsenal to Submit New Bid
Having seen their initial approach rejected, Arsenal are now preparing a **second offer** for the defender. Valencia, while reluctant to lose a key asset, understand Mosquera’s stance and may be willing to negotiate if the Gunners come close to their valuation, believed to be around **€20 million**.
Arsenal’s new sporting director **Andrea Berta** has been leading negotiations and is confident a deal can be reached. Given the club’s long-standing interest and Mosquera’s willingness to join, there’s optimism that Valencia will eventually soften their position.
### Strengthening the Backline
Mosquera is seen as a long-term defensive investment for Arsenal. While **Saliba and Gabriel** remain Arteta’s first-choice partnership, the club has been keen to add quality depth at centre-back — particularly a right-footed defender who can step in when needed and develop into a top-tier talent.
The 21-year-old, who has impressed with his composure, strength, and maturity in La Liga, fits that profile perfectly. He made **over 30 appearances** for Valencia last season and earned plaudits for his ability to read the game, recover quickly, and play out from the back under pressure.
### A Deal on the Horizon?
With Mosquera fully committed and Arsenal willing to raise their offer, this is a deal that appears to be heading in the right direction. The Gunners have made a clear statement of intent in targeting such a high-potential defender, and the club believes he can grow into a **first-team regular** in the years to come.
If negotiations continue positively, Christian Mosquera could become the **next exciting addition** to Arsenal’s evolving squad — another step toward building a team capable of delivering domestic and European glory.