Arsenal have completed the signing of Cristhian Mosquera from Valencia for an initial £13 million.
The Gunners were in the market for a new centre-back who could provide cover and competition for William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes this summer, and failed with moves for Marc Guehi and Dean Huijsen.
Mosquera was identified as the ideal alternative to these two, and Andrea Berta moved quickly and decisively to secure a deal for the talented youngster.
The Spaniard has already flown to Singapore and started training with Mikel Arteta’s squad, and could be in line for his Arsenal debut on Sunday against Newcastle United.
Cristhian Mosquera names Cesc Fabregas as his favourite Arsenal player ever
Mosquera revealed Gabriel Paulista helped convince him to sign for Arsenal, with the two players spending time together at Valencia.
That said, the Brazilian centre-back wasn’t cited by the 21-year-old as one of his favourite Gunners players ever.
Speaking to the club’s official X account, Mosquera was asked a series of questions in order for fans to get to know the new signing a little better.
One of the questions posed to him was who his favourite ever Arsenal player is, and unsurprisingly, the Spain under-21 international selected two of his compatriots who have worn the red and white shirt.
“Someone like Mikel Arteta, Cesc Fabregas – Spanish players,” Mosquera said.
While Arteta may be a diplomatic answer, it’ll be universally well received by the Gunners fanbase.
However, the latter may divide opinion for some.
Arsenal sold Fabregas to Barcelona for £35 million back in 2011, before the midfield maestro later joined London rivals Chelsea, winning two Premier League titles with the Blues.
Cesc Fabregas could manage Cristhian Mosquera at Arsenal
While Arteta is far from done at Arsenal, there will come a time when the Spaniard departs N5, whether on his own terms or because of a dismissal.
This day is likely not close, but the Gunners will no doubt have some names in mind regarding potential replacements.
Fabregas is currently impressing as Como head coach, and could be considered due to his pre-existing connection to Arsenal.
Given Mosquera’s age and the fact that he’s signed a long-term contract at the Emirates, it’s not unreasonable to suggest that he could be in N5 for several years.
His spell in Islington could coincide with a change in the dugout, and could ultimately see him managed by both of his favourite ever Arsenal players.
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