David Ornstein: Arsenal set sights on La Liga defender | OneFootball

Arsenal Close in on Cristhian Mosquera as Defensive Plans Take Shape

Mosquera Emerges as Top Target

According to The Athletic’s David Ornstein and James McNicholas, Arsenal are “working on a deal to sign Valencia defender Cristhian Mosquera,” as Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen his defensive ranks this summer. The 20-year-old Spain U21 international has caught the eye after a breakout season with Valencia, where he logged 90 minutes in 37 of their 38 La Liga fixtures last term.

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With Jakub Kiwior and Jurrien Timber providing depth, and Takehiro Tomiyasu still nursing a long-term injury, Mosquera is seen as essential cover and competition for the established pairing of William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães. As Ornstein notes, “Mosquera is ideal cover for first-choice pairing Gabriel and William Saliba.”

Why Arsenal Want Mosquera

Arsenal’s pursuit of a centre-back has been no secret. Previous moves for Vitor Reis and Dean Huijsen fell through, with both players ending up at Manchester City and Real Madrid respectively. With the club shifting its focus to Mosquera, it’s clear the recruitment team is targeting a defender who combines present readiness with long-term potential.

“Arsenal want a player who can provide competition and cover… but this would be a purchase with a view to the long-term,” McNicholas adds, highlighting Arteta’s continued emphasis on sustainable squad building.

Smart Investment or Risky Gamble?

Arsenal’s defensive core is already formidable, but fatigue and injuries remain constant threats in a 50-game season. The move for Mosquera could prove a prudent long-term investment — much like the earlier arrivals of Saliba and Gabriel. His youth, versatility, and elite-level minutes in La Liga offer both depth now and potential for the future.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From an Arsenal fan’s perspective, this move makes a great deal of sense. While not the headline-grabbing name some supporters might crave, Mosquera’s profile aligns perfectly with what Mikel Arteta has built at the Emirates: young, tactically intelligent, versatile, and technically strong.

It’s encouraging to see the club learning from the congested fixture list of last season. Saliba and Gabriel were outstanding, but the drop-off when either missed time was noticeable. Mosquera, who has “played practically every game since August 2023,” shows durability and maturity well beyond his years.

His ball-playing credentials fit Arsenal’s blueprint to build from the back. That 91.2% passing accuracy in La Liga, combined with his U21 Euros performance, proves he’s more than just a reactive defender — he’s a progressive one. And while concerns about his aerial prowess are valid, this is a minor blemish in an otherwise composed and consistent defender’s game.

Fans should also take comfort in the club’s recent record of developing centre-backs. If Arteta and his staff can polish Mosquera’s few rough edges, this could be another gem in the making — not just a squad option, but a future starter.