Valencia have submitted a formal contract extension proposal to highly rated centre-back Cristhian Mosquera, as they look to fend off growing interest from Arsenal.
The offer, described as significant in financial terms, was made directly to Mosquera’s agent Sergio Barila and includes a substantial pay rise that would elevate the 21-year-old into a new salary bracket at Mestalla.
Mosquera is considered one of the most exciting defensive prospects in Spanish football, but is currently mulling over an offer from Arsenal which would see him challenge William Saliba and Gabriel for the centre back position at Emirates Stadium.
Having joined Valencia at the age of 12, he made his senior debut in January 2022 and has since become a mainstay in Ruben Baraja’s backline.
Last season, he played every minute in 37 of Valencia’s 38 La Liga matches, an impressive feat that has not gone unnoticed outside Spain.
Mikel Arteta’s side have already submitted an initial offer for Mosquera and are preparing to return with a second bid worth close to €20 million ($21.5m), including add-ons and a potential sell-on clause.
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Will Mosquera sign for Arsenal?
Sources close to the player suggest he is open to the move and sees the Premier League as the natural next step in his career.
Sporting director Andrea Berta is a long-time admirer of Mosquera and has good relations with the player’s representatives.
Valencia’s initial approach to extend Mosquera’s contract was made earlier this month, with club officials meeting Barila at their headquarters four days after first contact was made.
Despite having a contract that runs until 2026, the Spanish club know they are under pressure to sell this summer if a renewal cannot be agreed, particularly given their delicate financial situation.
Premier League side Bournemouth have also shown interest in the defender, but Arsenal remain in pole position for his signature.
The next few weeks are expected to be decisive as both clubs continue to push for a resolution.
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