Arsenal Nearing Agreement with La Liga Defender as Mikel Arteta Targets Another Summer Addition

Arsenal are reportedly close to finalizing a deal with Valencian defender Cristhian Mosquera, having agreed on personal terms with the 21-year-old centre-back. The club sees him as potential cover for their main defenders William Saliba and Gabriel, especially after Gabriel’s hamstring injury in April.

Saliba, 24, was a regular starter last season, playing in all 35 Premier League matches and maintaining his position throughout 2023-24. Arsenal seeks to bolster their backline by adding Mosquera, who has come through Valencia’s youth system and made his first-team debut in 2021.

The young defender has accumulated over 100 appearances for Valencia and has been involved with Spain’s national teams from the Under-15 level to the U23s, including winning a gold medal at last summer’s Olympics. Despite playing for Spain at various youth levels, he is yet to debut for the senior team.

Arsenal previously submitted a £12 million bid for Mosquera, which was rejected by Valencia. Now, they are preparing a revised offer exceeding £17 million to secure his transfer.

Morale in the transfer market remains high for Arsenal, as they aim to strengthen their squad for a competitive push in the Premier League. Recent moves include a £15 million deal to bring Christian Norgaard from Brentford, with interest also in signing goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga and midfielder Martin Zubimendi.

The club’s primary focus this summer is acquiring a top striker. While Benjamin Sesko is considered a preferred option, negotiations with RB Leipzig are complex due to the club’s firm stance, prompting Arsenal to consider alternatives like Viktor Gyokeres.