Arsenal have completed the signing of Cristhian Mosquera from La Liga side Valencia, strengthening their defence ahead of the new season.
The 21-year-old Spanish defender joins the Premier League giants in a deal worth around £13 million.
According to reports, the deal includes additional performance-based clauses and an option for a 12-month extension.
Mosquera has already joined the Arsenal squad in Singapore for pre-season training after undergoing his medical in London.
While fans were not anticipating a new defensive signing this early in the transfer window, the move has been confirmed by the club.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta welcomed the youngster with open arms, expressing his excitement about Mosquera’s qualities and potential.
“We’re delighted to welcome Cristhian to Arsenal. As a 21-year-old defender, Cristhian has already performed consistently well with significant experience in La Liga,” Arteta stated on the club’s official website.
“He is an intelligent player with good pace, who can play centrally and on both sides,” he added.
“He is a young player with exciting talent and enormous potential, who will fit well into our squad as we continue to prepare for next season.”
The new Arsenal signing will add much-needed depth to the defensive lineup.
Moreover, his versatility to play in central defence and both full-back positions gives the Gunners more options in rotation and injury cover.
Mosquera also shared his excitement about making the switch to the Premier League. Speaking shortly after his arrival, he said, “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,” he added.
Furthermore, it aligns with Arteta’s ongoing strategy to build a team around young, energetic talents with long-term potential.
The defender will now focus on adapting to his new environment and understanding Arteta’s tactical system.
