La Liga defender ‘wants to join’ Arsenal | OneFootball

Arsenal Close in on Mosquera as Defender Rejects Valencia Contract Extension

Arsenal make their move for Mosquera

Arsenal are edging closer to signing Valencia centre-back Cristhian Mosquera after the 20-year-old informed his current club that he wishes to join the Premier League side. According to Las Provincias, Mosquera has rejected a contract extension at Mestalla, where he had been offered progressive wage increases up to €3 million gross per season until 2028.

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Instead, the highly rated Spain U21 international has set his sights firmly on a switch to North London, where terms are reportedly already agreed with Arsenal. While no transfer fee has yet been finalised between the two clubs, Valencia are holding out for a figure close to €20 million, having already dismissed an initial €14 million offer.

The young defender’s desire is clear. “Mosquera wants to play in the Premier League for Arsenal,” reads the report, which adds that he has formally asked Valencia to begin negotiations with the Gunners.

Contract delay proves costly for Valencia

It was Valencia’s delay in tabling a formal contract renewal that ultimately shifted the tide. A month passed without a concrete proposal from the Spanish side, opening the door for Arsenal to move quickly. Mikel Arteta’s involvement and Arsenal’s clear long-term planning were decisive. Champions League football, a larger salary, and the opportunity to work under a Spanish manager all appealed to the Alicante-born player.

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In a cryptic Instagram story posted shortly after news broke, Mosquera wrote: “Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but the Lord’s purpose prevails.” It was a poetic nod to a decision that feels emotionally charged. Though initially committed to staying at Valencia, the circumstances evolved.

Valencia face defensive reshuffle

Valencia’s defensive options will be stretched if Mosquera departs. Cenk and Comert are out of favour, while Tárrega and Yarek are attracting interest from Bologna and PSV respectively. If Mosquera leaves, Carlos Corberán would be left with only Diakhaby and potentially two unproven options unless swift reinforcements arrive.

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Meanwhile, Iker Córdoba, viewed as a possible future first-teamer, has been loaned out to Mirandés. This leaves a narrow margin for error in Valencia’s recruitment, particularly with financial constraints also influencing their strategy.

Ron Gourley’s recent appointment as CEO of football operations means Valencia’s transfer dealings now reflect a tighter, performance-led structure. But this calculated approach may have backfired in this case. A one-month delay in securing a key prospect has allowed one of Europe’s most proactive clubs to pounce.

Pathway to Arsenal first team not guaranteed

While the appeal of Arsenal is obvious, Mosquera knows he will be entering a fiercely competitive environment. William Saliba and Gabriel are established as the first-choice centre-back pairing, with the likes of Jakub Kiwior and Ben White also able to slot in.

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Nevertheless, Arsenal’s packed fixture schedule and their commitment to developing young talent offer encouragement. Arteta is said to have convinced Mosquera that minutes will come, provided he maintains consistency in training and adapts quickly to the demands of English football.

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From Arsenal’s perspective, this move continues their trend of acquiring emerging talents who can develop within a defined tactical system. While Mosquera may not start immediately, his profile as a ball-playing defender with aerial presence fits the club’s defensive evolution.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Arsenal fans, this move has all the hallmarks of intelligent recruitment. Cristhian Mosquera is not yet a household name, but the ingredients are there, age, versatility, technical skill and a high ceiling. This is precisely the type of signing that ensures squad depth without stalling the progress of existing players.

That the defender rejected a sizeable contract at Valencia to push for the Emirates speaks volumes. It signals Arsenal’s pulling power, not only in wages or Champions League status, but in their project under Arteta. Young players want to be part of it.

Yes, there will be questions about how much game time Mosquera might get initially. But Arsenal supporters have already seen how quickly talents like Saliba, Martinelli and Trossard can become vital pieces. If Mosquera brings the hunger and commitment that has already shaped his career, he will find a route into this squad.

And let’s be honest, having strong options at centre-back has never hurt any title-chasing side. This is another step in building resilience across competitions.