Arsenal have officially signed highly rated Spanish defender Cristhian Mosquera from Valencia for an initial fee of around €15 million (£13m). The 21-year-old has agreed to a five-year deal, with an option to extend for a further year.
Versatile in defence, Mosquera can operate both as a centre-back and right-back, and is expected to fill the void left by Takehiro Tomiyasu, who mutually terminated his contract earlier this month.
“I couldn’t let it pass me by. I’m joining a historic, massive club,” Mosquera said.
“My career has moved faster than I expected and I’ve had to mature fast. Coming here is a chance to keep learning and improving.”
Rising Star
A Spain U21 international, Mosquera joined Valencia’s academy at just 12 and made his first-team debut in 2022. He quickly established himself, becoming the youngest centre-back in the club’s history. Last season, he was a defensive mainstay, playing 37 out of 38 La Liga matches, as Valencia secured a 12th-place finish.
Arsenal’s Vision
Manager Mikel Arteta praised Mosquera as a player with “exciting talent and enormous potential”, signalling the club’s intent to build a young, dynamic squad.
Sporting director Andrea Berta also emphasized Mosquera’s long-term value, positioning him as a key part of Arsenal’s defensive future.
With the signing, Arsenal not only strengthen their backline but also add another promising talent to their youth-driven rebuild — one with the potential to become a cornerstone of the club’s future.