Arsenal Football Club has announced the signing of Spain under-21 international Cristhian Mosquera on a long-term contract.
Gatekeepers News reports that the 21-year-old defender joins the Gunners from Valencia, where he made 90 appearances in all competitions.
Mosquera, who has been a key player for Valencia’s defense, has also had a successful stint with Spain’s youth teams, making 34 appearances between under-15 and under-21 levels. He was part of the gold medal-winning squad at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.
Arsenal’s Sporting Director Andrea Berta expressed his excitement about the signing, saying, “We’re very happy and excited to have signed a hugely talented young player in Cristhian Mosquera. We identified Cristhian as one of the strongest young defenders in European football, and he is an important signing for our future.”
Manager Mikel Arteta added, “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.”
Mosquera will wear the number 3 shirt and join the squad on their pre-season tour in Asia. The transfer is subject to completion of regulatory processes.
The deal is reportedly worth an initial £13m plus add-ons for Mosquera, who will provide competition for William Saliba and Gabriel at centre-back.
In his own words, Mosquera expressed his excitement about joining Arsenal, saying, “It means a lot to me. I’m joining a historic, massive club… When you arrive here with your family, you really feel the greatness of this place. I’m thrilled to be here.”
He also mentioned that he wants to improve and create competition within the squad.
