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[Photos] Cristhian Mosquera all smiles after completing move to Arsenal

By on July 25, 2025

Arsenal completed the signing of Cristhian Mosquera from Valencia, bringing in the young Spanish defender ahead of the new season.

The 21-year-old joins on a long-term contract after the Gunners agreed a deal worth an initial £13m plus add-ons.

Sporting director Andrea Berta led the negotiations, managing to secure the player below Valencia’s original £17.4 million asking price.

Mosquera becomes Arsenal’s first major defensive signing of the summer. His arrival will boost Mikel Arteta’s options at the back as the club prepare for another challenging campaign.

The young defender has now been training with his new team mates for the first time. The Arsenal squad are in Asia preparing for their pre-season friendly against Newcastle United on Sunday where Mosquera will hope to make his debut.

Able to play both centre-back and right-back, Mosquera serves as a replacement for Takehiro Tomiyasu, who recently left the club by mutual consent.

The youngster made 90 senior appearances for Valencia after coming through their academy system.

He joined the La Liga side at the age of 12 and made his senior debut in the Copa del Rey at just 17. Days later, he featured in a 1-1 draw against Sevilla in his first La Liga appearance.

Young centre-back expected to challenge for starting role

Following a strong rise through the ranks, Mosquera was promoted to the senior squad for the 2023/24 season.

He quickly became a regular in the heart of Valencia’s defence.

Last season, he started 37 of their 38 league matches, playing the full 90 minutes each time.

Mosquera sees move as an opportunity for growth

In his first interview with the club, Mosquera discussed the hard work involved in his signing and emphasized viewing it as an opportunity for growth.

The defender stressed that his career had progressed quickly, but he aims to improve and compete with the team.

“It means a lot to me, There’s been a lot of hard work behind all of this.

“It’s an opportunity that came up and I couldn’t let it pass me by. I’m joining a historic, massive club. When you arrive here with your family, you really feel the greatness of this place.”

“It’s true my career has moved faster than expected and I’ve had to mature fast. Coming here is a chance to keep learning and improving. I’ll be working with great players and a top-class coaching staff, so that will help me develop personally.

“I’m a player with a lot of energy. I’m young, so I still have plenty to give. I’m fully motivated and excited. Above all, I want to improve, which will create competition within the squad. I’m really happy.”

His consistency and fitness were key highlights of his performances. Since August 2023, he has started 70 out of 72 league fixtures for Valencia. That record points to his reliability and importance to the team.

His experience and steady growth make him a strong addition for Arsenal. The club believe he has the potential to compete immediately with Saliba and Gabriel for a starting role.

Mosquera’s arrival underlines Arsenal’s intent to build a deeper squad capable of challenging for trophies.

He will wear the number 3 shirt and will join up with the squad on our men’s pre-season tour in Asia. His signing shows the club’s focus on investing in long-term quality at the back.

Here are some photos of Mosquera in training: