Arsenal: Mikel Arteta praises 'intelligent' Cristhian Mosquera as debut planned after £13m deal is completed | OneFootball

Gunners have bolstered their defensive options with the signing of the Spain U21 international

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Mikel Arteta has revealed why Arsenal have signed Cristhian Mosquera.

Arsenal confirmed on Thursday that Mosquera had become their fifth signing of the summer transfer window after Kepa Arrizabalaga, Martin Zubimendi, Christian Norgaard and Noni Madueke.

The Spain U21 international is the first defensive recruit and has been tipped to provide cover as well as competition for William Saliba as the Gunners’ right-sided centre-half next season.

Although when discussing Mosquera’s qualities, Arteta confirmed that he also sees the 21-year-old as an option to operate as a full-back on both flanks.

Arteta said: "We're delighted to welcome Cristhian to Arsenal. As a 21-year-old defender, Cristhian has already performed consistently well with significant experience in La Liga. He is an intelligent player with good pace, who can play centrally and on both sides.

“He is a young player with exciting talent and enormous potential, who will fit well into our squad as we continue to prepare for next season.

“Cristhian adds good quality to our squad, and we look forward to working with him and making him feel at home with us.

“From all of us, we welcome Cristhian and his family to the club.”

Mosquera, who will wear the No3 shirt for Arsenal, has joined up with the squad on the pre-season tour in Asia and could make his debut as early as Sunday against Newcastle.