Arsenal verbally agree £13m deal for La Liga player

Arsenal are advancing towards signing Valencia defender Cristhian Mosquera, with multiple reports confirming the deal is progressing significantly. Following initial bids, Valencia attempted to secure a contract extension for Mosquera, but Fabrizio Romano states there is "no chance" of that as the player is solely interested in joining Arsenal.

David Ornstein confirms Arsenal are working to complete the deal, which is now very advanced. Personal terms between Mosquera and Arsenal are already agreed, and the two clubs are close to reaching a formal agreement. Romano reports a verbal agreement is in place for a €15m (£13m) fee plus add-ons, bringing the total package to less than €20m (£17.3m), with the medical scheduled for this week if plans proceed.

Valencia journalist Hector Gomez, who previously highlighted significant differences in valuation, now acknowledges Arsenal have substantially improved their offer and that negotiations are advanced and moving quickly. Sam Dean adds that Arsenal expect Mosquera to join their pre-season tour later this week.

The 21-year-old centre-back made 41 appearances for Valencia in the 2024/25 season and has debuted for the Spanish senior national team, though he played for the U21s at the Euros this summer. Born in 2004, he will qualify as an U21 player in the Premier League squad lists this season, meaning he won't occupy a non-homegrown spot domestically. However, he will need to be registered as a non-homegrown senior player in the Champions League, as UEFA requires two seasons at a club for U21 list eligibility.

Mosquera was in the final year of his contract with Valencia, which contributed to Arsenal securing a cut-price agreement.