Cristhian Mosquera Confirms Arsenal Move in Emotional Valencia Farewell

Cristhian Mosquera has announced he is leaving Valencia to join Arsenal. This ends a journey that started when he was 12. The young defender will have his medical in London later this week before finalizing the move.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Mosquera confirmed his switch to Arsenal and shared a heartfelt message about leaving Valencia. He called the transfer bittersweet and said, “I’m leaving Valencia as a man, and I arrived here when I was just 12. This is my home, and it will always be.” Arsenal and Valencia have agreed on an exchange worth £13 million initially, plus clauses for the 21-year-old.

A previous report confirmed that Arsenal will pay an initial €15 million for Cristhian Mosquera.

He is set to be one of three major pick-ups for Arsenal, with approaches for Sporting striker Viktor Gyokeres and Chelsea winger Noni Madueke.

A previous report indicated that Arsenal intends to integrate Viktor Gyökeres before their U.S. pre-season tour.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Mosquera leaves Valencia after a year where he became a loyal starter in La Liga. At 21 years old, he played over 30 league matches in the 2024-25 season, helping Valencia finish in the top half of the table. A previous report stated that Cristhian Mosquera played almost every game for Valencia last season. Several European clubs showed interest in Mosquera, but Arsenal acted firmly. After finishing strong in the Premier League last season, a report confirmed that Arsenal finished second in the Premier League last season with 70 points, aiming to enhance their defense with young talent for domestic and European success.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR ARSENAL?

Mosquera is set for his medical this week and should join Arsenal’s pre-season tour in Asia soon. Arsenal start their 2025-26 Premier League season against Manchester United, an important match as both clubs aim to finish in the top four this season. With Liverpool, Manchester City and Chelsea as competitors close behind, every point will be vital from the start. Mosquera could be poised to see minutes early in the season, with Mikel Arteta eager to integrate new pick-ups.