Arsenal`s summer transfer activity continues with purpose. Following the significant acquisition of Spanish midfielder Martin Zubimendi, attention now appears to be shifting towards strengthening the defensive unit. Reports from various sources indicate that Valencia`s promising young centre-back, Cristhian Mosquera, is on the verge of completing a move to North London.
While the pursuit of a prominent forward like Viktor Gyokeres has captured headlines, reliable journalists suggest that a deal for the 20-year-old Colombian-born defender is progressing rapidly. It`s understood that an “agreement in principle” has been established, with only minor details pending finalization before the transfer can be officially announced. The reported fee for Mosquera stands around £15m, though other reports suggest a slightly higher figure of £17m. This valuation, for a player of his potential and current ability in LaLiga, could represent shrewd business for the Gunners.
A Complementary Piece for the Midfield Anchor
The recent £60m arrival of Martin Zubimendi addresses a critical need for Arsenal: a dedicated defensive midfielder capable of anchoring the team. Mikel Arteta`s system often requires this pivot to provide stability and facilitate build-up play. While Zubimendi excels in this role, the effectiveness of any midfield anchor is significantly influenced by the quality and suitability of the players around him, particularly the defenders behind him.
This is where Cristhian Mosquera enters the picture. Despite being a centre-back, his profile suggests he possesses attributes that could directly benefit Zubimendi. Modern football demands defenders who are not only robust in tackling and positioning but also comfortable and proficient with the ball at their feet. Mosquera`s statistics from the 2024/25 LaLiga season highlight this capability.
Statistical Insight: More Than Just a Defender
Analysis of Mosquera`s performance reveals why he might be considered a strategic target beyond simply adding defensive depth. His 91% pass accuracy rate demonstrates a high level of composure and precision in distributing the ball from the back. Furthermore, his average of 3.3 progressive passes per 90 minutes indicates an ability to break lines and move the ball effectively into more advanced areas, bypassing the initial press and finding midfielders like Zubimendi in positions to build attacks.
This ball-playing competence is crucial. It allows the centre-backs to initiate play reliably, reducing pressure on the defensive midfielder and giving Zubimendi more options and time on the ball or enabling him to take up slightly more advanced positions if the situation permits. A defender like Mosquera who can consistently find his midfielders makes the entire team`s transition from defence to attack smoother and more efficient.
Beyond his distribution skills, Mosquera also offers solid defensive output. Winning 1.5 tackles and making 3.5 clearances per 90 minutes reflects his primary duty of protecting the goal. His 75% tackle success rate is a particularly impressive metric, placing him among the elite defenders in Spain`s top division in this regard. This combination of defensive solidity and technical ability on the ball is precisely what is required in Arteta`s system, which values defenders who can contribute meaningfully in possession.
Potential and Partnership
At just 20 years old, Mosquera represents an investment in the future. His current performance levels suggest he is already capable of contributing, but his age offers significant scope for development under Arteta and the coaching staff. Integrating him into the squad alongside a player like Zubimendi, who is also Spanish-speaking and operates just in front of the central defenders, could foster a strong understanding and partnership on the pitch.
While the excitement around potentially signing a high-scoring forward is understandable, the reported move for Cristhian Mosquera appears to be a calculated step aimed at strengthening the fundamental structure of the team. Building a solid foundation with players like Zubimendi in midfield and Mosquera in defence provides the platform necessary for the attacking players to thrive. Should the deal be completed as expected, Arsenal will have added another intelligent, technically proficient player to their ranks, potentially laying the groundwork for a more robust and fluid side in the campaign ahead. The prospect of these two Spanish-speaking talents forming a key part of Arsenal`s spine is undoubtedly intriguing.
