Who is Arsenal target Cristhian Mosquera?

Valencia defender Cristhian Mosquera has been identified as a summer target by a number of elite European clubs with Arsenal reportedly in talks to bring the Spaniard to the Emirates.

We take a look at his career so far, how much he is expected to cost and what he can bring to potential suitors next season.

Cristhian Mosquera age, nationality & background

Born on 27th June 2004, Cristhian Mosquera is 20 years old.

Mosquera was born in Alicante, Spain to Colombian parents and joined Valencia's youth setup aged 12.

Cristhian Mosquera transfer fee and contract

Mosquera - being a product of the academy - signed a new deal in the spring of last year that lasts until June 2026.

Whilst there are no concrete reports over a transfer fee for the defender, Transfermarkt.co.uk estimates his market value at €30m.

With just one year left on his deal it is likely that Valencia wouldn't ask for too much over this valuation but as the top clubs around Europe circle, the fee could climb towards €40m.

Cristhian Mosquera transfer rumours

Both David Ornstein and Fabrizio Romano have reported that Arsenal have opened talks with Valencia over the signing of Mosquera.

Ornstein wrote on X: "Arsenal working on deal to sign Cristhian Mosquera from Valencia. 20yo currently #AFC preferred option to strengthen at centre-back. Entering final 12 months of contract + interest from other clubs too."

The Gunners are likely to face competition for his signature form the likes of Real Madrid, Inter Milan and RB Leipzig.

What to expect from Cristhian Mosquera

Position

Predominantly playing as a centre-half, Mosquera has also shown that he is able to play at right-back.

Height and build

Standing at 6ft 2ins, he is of a lean build.

Preferred foot

Mosquera is primarily a right-footed defender.

Style of play

The 20-year-old very much fits the profile of the modern day defender with his athleticism making him extremely adept in one-on-one situations.

As well as his defensive and physical abilities, Mosquera is very capable on the ball. He ranks very favourably amongst players of his age and position in metrics such as pass completion and progressive carries.

A standout attribute of Mosquera's is his long range passing. Either with his team in trouble or in comfortable possession he seems able to switch the ball quickly, finding a winger or full-back.

Career so far

Previous clubs

Mosquera played for SCD Carolinas in the embryonic stages of his footballing career before joining Alicante-based side Hércules CF.

From there he moved to the Valencia academy, the club he has represented since the age of 12.

International caps

Whilst Mosquera also has a Colombian citizenship he has represented Spain at various youth levels including U21 and U23.