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Where is Cristhian Mosquera?! Why Arsenal still haven’t announced signing of Valencia centre-back as mystery surrounds medical issues
Arsenal’s transfer for highly-rated Spanish defender Cristhian Mosquera has yet to be officially finalized, nearly ten days after a deal was struck with Valencia.
While the agreement is believed to be worth up to €20 million (£17m/$23m), questions are now swirling around the delay in confirmation.
The 21-year-old centre-back reportedly flew to London early last week, where he was welcomed by club officials and even recorded introductory content for Arsenal’s media team. That footage was inadvertently leaked during Noni Madueke’s presentation, further fuelling speculation that the move was imminent.
However, Mosquera was notably absent from the Gunners’ Asia pre-season tour squad, raising eyebrows among fans and pundits alike.
Initial rumours hinted at a potential medical setback, but according to Tribuna Deportiva Valencia, sources close to the player insist that Mosquera successfully completed his medical. Despite the growing curiosity, both Arsenal and Valencia have remained tight-lipped about the exact cause of the hold-up.
Within Arsenal, confidence remains high that the deal will be finalised soon. The club sees Mosquera as a strategic long-term addition, to integrate him gradually into Mikel Arteta’s plans. With William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães firmly established as starters, the Spanish youngster is expected to develop under their shadow and be groomed for future first-team involvement.
For now, the transfer is still on track, though any official unveiling is likely to come only after the conclusion of Arsenal’s Asia tour.