Arsenal Football Club is intensifying efforts to secure the signature of Valencia’s highly-rated defender Cristhian Mosquera, with reports confirming that the Gunners have reached a full agreement on personal terms with the 21-year-old Spain U21 international.
According to recent updates from sources like The Guardian and transfer expert Nicolo Schira, Arsenal’s initial €14 million (£11.9m) bid was rejected by Valencia, but the Premier League club is preparing a new offer exceeding €20 million (£17m) to finalize the deal.
Talks between the two clubs remain ongoing, with Arsenal optimistic about bolstering their defensive line before the summer transfer window closes.
Mosquera, who has made 90 senior appearances for Valencia since his debut in 2022, has emerged as a top target for Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, who seeks to strengthen his squad’s depth behind first-choice centre-backs William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães.
The versatile defender, capable of playing both centre-back and right-back, played 90 minutes in 37 of Valencia’s 38 La Liga matches last season, showcasing his reliability and potential.
His performances, including a gold medal win with Spain at the 2024 Paris Olympics, have also attracted interest from clubs like RB Leipzig, AC Milan, and Aston Villa, but Arsenal appear to be in pole position.
Valencia, however, are determined to retain Mosquera, who is entering the final year of his contract in 2026. The Spanish club rejected Arsenal’s opening €14 million offer, with reports indicating they are holding out for a fee closer to €20-25 million.
Negotiations for a contract extension with Mosquera have stalled, partly due to disagreements over a proposed €35 million release clause, which the player’s representatives want reduced to €25 million.
This has opened the door for Arsenal, with fans suggesting the player is motivated by the prospect of joining Arteta’s project and competing in the Premier League and Champions League.
Valencia captain Jose Gaya expressed hope that Mosquera, alongside other young talents Javi Guerra and César Tárrega, would remain at the club, stating, “I would be delighted if all three could stay because they can give a lot this new season.”
However, Arsenal’s persistence and the player’s agreement on personal terms signal a potential move to the Emirates Stadium.
The Gunners are also nearing deals for Brentford’s Christian Nørgaard, Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi, and Chelsea’s Kepa Arrizabalaga, underlining an ambitious transfer window.
As negotiations continue, Arsenal fans are buzzing with anticipation, with many viewing Mosquera as a long-term investment to solidify their defence.
