Arsenal have bolstered their defensive ranks with the signing of promising Spanish centre-back Cristhian Mosquera from La Liga side Valencia.
The 21-year-old becomes the Gunners’ fifth addition of the summer, joining Kepa Arrizabalaga, Noni Madueke, Christian Norgaard, and Martin Zubimendi at the Emirates.
Announcing the deal on Thursday, the club said, “We’re delighted to announce that Spain under-21 international Cristhian Mosquera has joined us on a long-term contract.”
Mosquera, who came through the youth setup at Valencia after joining at age 12, made a total of 90 senior appearances for Los Che.
His senior debut arrived in January 2022 during a Copa del Rey fixture, and he quickly followed it up with his first La Liga appearance, a 1-1 draw against Sevilla at the Mestalla.
“The 21-year-old defender arrives from Valencia, where he made 90 appearances in all competitions,” Arsenal’s statement continued.
“Cristhian was with Valencia’s academy from the age of 12, progressing through the youth ranks before making his first-team debut in the Copa del Rey as a 17-year-old in January 2022. His first La Liga appearance came just days later, starting at the Mestalla in a 1-1 draw against Sevilla.
“Ahead of the 2023/24 campaign, Cristhian was officially promoted to the first-team squad, soon becoming an integral part of the club’s defence. Last season saw Cristhian start 37 of the 38 league matches in the campaign, playing every minute during his appearances.”
Born in Spain but also eligible to represent Colombia, Mosquera has featured 34 times for Spain’s youth sides and was part of the squad that clinched gold at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
“Born in Spain and also eligible to play for Colombia, Cristhian has made 34 appearances at youth level for Spain between under-15 and under-21 levels. He was also a member of the gold medal-winning squad at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.”
The young defender will don the number 3 shirt and is set to link up with Mikel Arteta’s side during their pre-season tour in Asia.
“Cristhian will wear the number 3 shirt and will join up with the squad on our men’s pre-season tour in Asia.
“Everyone at Arsenal welcomes Cristhian to the club.
“The transfer is subject to the completion of regulatory processes.”
Meanwhile, speculation continues to swirl around Arsenal’s potential next move, with reports suggesting Swedish forward Viktor Gyökeres is edging closer to a move from Sporting Lisbon.
