Arsenal are working on a deal to sign young defender Cristhian Mosquera from Valencia, according to multiple reports.
Following various rumours on X (Twitter), Fabrizio Romano and the Athletic's David Ornstein broke the news this afternoon that the Gunners are in active talks over a move for the Spanish youth international with the possibility of adding him to the ranks as a new defensive option.
It is no secret Arsenal wanted to bring in another defender during the summer transfer window and they may have found their man in Mosquera.
Arsenal working on deal to sign young Valencia defender
🚨 Arsenal working on deal to sign Cristhian Mosquera from Valencia. 20yo currently #AFC preferred option to strengthen at centre-back. Entering final 12 months of contract + interest from other clubs too. W/ @gunnerblog @TheAthleticFC after @HandofArsenal https://t.co/CFCMi0IlTh
— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) June 26, 2025
Mosquera currently finds himself as Arsenal's preferred option as a defensive signing, despite the club previously looking at the likes of Marc Guehi and Jorrel Hato.
It makes sense why that is the case. Both Guehi and Hato were expected to be costly candidates, but the Times have reported Mosquera is available for as little as £17m.
Fabrizio Romano also revealed personal terms are not expected to be an issue. Mosquera is said to have given the green light to a move and is keen to join the Gunners following an explanation of the project.
The young defender has proven himself to be a talented player in his short career. Since making his senior debut for Valencia in 2022, he has appeared 90 times and scored one goal for the club. His performances have also earned him call-ups to Spain's youth teams, making 36 appearances from Under-15 to Under-23 level.
Being a right-footed defender, Mosquera could provide ideal cover for William Saliba. Gabriel Magalhaes has Jakub Kiwior to fill in for him when needed, but his French partner doesn't have the same. Jurrien Timber and Ben White can both play in the centre of defence, but operate better as right backs, whereas Takehiro Tomiyasu's fitness issues have prevented him from being a reliable option.
Mosquera does seem like an ideal signing for Arsenal. It's clear he wants a move to north London and is also available for a relatively cheap fee. At just 20-years-old he will be a great long-term addition to the squad, but his prior experience and being right-footed make him a suitable candidate to step in for Saliba when required.