Christian Mosquera Pushes for Arsenal Move as Transfer Talks Advance

WHAT HAPPENED?

Christian Mosquera wants to leave Valencia and join Arsenal. He has told Valencia he will not sign a new contract with them. The 20-year-old Spanish defender has agreed personal terms with Arsenal, and the two clubs are set to hold fresh talks on Wednesday over a deal after the Gunners’ first offer was rejected. Arsenal have submitted a second offer that is expected to be much closer to Valencia’s asking price in the region of £20 million ($26 million) and would also contain a significant sell-on clause.

Valencia is asking for €20 million for Christian Mosquera.

WHY IS MOSQUERA IN DEMAND?

Mosquera has emerged as one of the standout defenders in La Liga after making his breakthrough in February 2023. He has since become a key figure in the team and impressed with his performances for Spain U21s in their Under-21 European Championship win earlier this year. Mikel Arteta has been looking to strengthen his defence after a disappointing season so far and, having missed out on Eric Garcia in the summer, has turned back to Mosquera. Arsenal currently have three senior centre-backs and need reinforcements to allow Arteta to switch to his preferred back-three formation.

Christian Mosquera impressed for Spain at the Under-21 European Championship.

WHAT NEXT?

Arsenal will hope to get the deal for Mosquera finalised in the coming days as they prepare to face Manchester United in the Premier League opener in August.

Arsenal finished 2nd in the Premier League last season with 70 points.