Mikel Arteta’s cheeky remark during Cristhian Mosquera’s unveiling has reportedly left La Liga side Valencia unimpressed. While Arsenal celebrate the signing of the highly-rated defender, the Spanish club is less than thrilled—particularly with what they perceive as a subtle hint toward another potential transfer involving Mosquera’s younger brother.
Arsenal Land Cristhian Mosquera in £13M Deal
Arsenal have officially secured the services of Spanish defender Cristhian Mosquera from Valencia for an initial £13 million, potentially rising to £18 million with add-ons. The Gunners beat out competition for the Spain U21 international, who joined the North London side during their pre-season tour in Singapore.
Mosquera, who had just one year remaining on his Valencia contract, declined offers to renew, forcing the Spanish side to accept a reduced fee rather than risk losing him for nothing next summer. His departure adds to Arsenal’s active summer transfer window, which has already seen the club spend a combined £135 million on Kepa Arrizabalaga, Christian Nørgaard, Martin Zubimendi, Noni Madueke, and now Mosquera.
Valencia Bristles at Arteta’s Post-Transfer Comments
Despite the lucrative deal, Valencia’s frustrations have extended beyond the financials. The source of their ire? A seemingly innocent joke from Mikel Arteta during Mosquera’s presentation.
As the Arsenal manager handed a pen to Cristhian’s 14-year-old brother, Julian, he quipped, “So you can visualise it for the future,” before adding with a smile, “He’s very good.” According to reports from Estadio Deportivo, Valencia interpreted the comment as a veiled attempt to stake early interest in their promising youth talent.
Julian Mosquera, considered one of Valencia’s brightest prospects, remains firmly under the club’s control, with FIFA rules prohibiting international transfers of players under 16. Still, the joke didn’t land well with Los Che, who view Arteta’s remarks as an unwelcome advance toward another academy gem.
Julian Mosquera: The Next Talent in Arsenal’s Sights?
Though no official moves can be made for Julian until he turns 16, his future is already attracting attention. The teenager has publicly expressed his desire to one day play alongside his older brother, which only fuels speculation about Arsenal’s long-term intentions.
For now, Valencia remain protective of their young star, reportedly having “a tight grip” on his development. The club clearly sees him as a vital part of their future and is unlikely to entertain any discussions, lighthearted or not, about a transfer.
Arsenal Continue Aggressive Summer with Gyokeres Pursuit
While the Mosquera drama simmers, Arsenal are already closing in on their next major signing. Swedish striker Viktor Gyokeres is on the verge of joining from Sporting CP after a prolific season in Portugal where he netted an astonishing 54 goals in 52 appearances.
The Gunners have agreed to a deal worth €63.5 million, with an additional €10 million in performance-based bonuses, including Champions League qualification. The 26-year-old is expected to don the iconic No.14 shirt once worn by Thierry Henry.
RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko had also been under consideration, but Arsenal, under the influence of new sporting director Andrea Berta, have opted to make Gyokeres their marquee attacking addition.
Conclusion
Arsenal’s assertive moves in the transfer market are making headlines—but not all of them positive. While the acquisition of Mosquera strengthens their backline, it’s Arteta’s light-hearted remark that has unexpectedly stirred tensions with Valencia. With more signings on the horizon, including Gyokeres, the Gunners show no sign of slowing down—on or off the pitch.
