Arsenal confirm signing of defender Mosquera | OneFootball

Arsenal have confirmed the signing of defender Cristhian Mosquera from Valencia.

The 21-year-old joins for an initial fee of around 15m euros and has signed a deal until 2030, with the option of a further year also included.

“It’s an opportunity that came up and I couldn’t let it pass me by,” Mosquera told Arsenal. 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.”

Mosquera predominantly plays as a central defender but has also shown the versatility to play across the back-line during his time with Valencia.

Arsenal identified the youngster as one of Europe’s top central defenders and as someone who can add depth of quality to their defence.

The 21-year-old has impressed with his ability to anticipate play and is quick off the mark, ranking second in La Liga for the number of loose ball recoveries last season with 190, behind only Barcelona’s Pedri, as per FBref.

His availability record also played a factor in his move to north London – with the Spaniard playing in 37 of Valencia’s 38 league games last season.

Arsenal are also hoping to soon complete the signing of Sporting CP forward Viktor Gyokeres.