Arsenal were handed a boost in the Cristhain Mosquera chase after the defender rejected Valencia’s contract offer and wants the switch to the Emirates.

According to Caught Offside, the Cristhian Mosquera saga could be heading into the decisive stages, as Arsenal were handed a major boost in the pursuit. The 21-year-old Olympics 2024 gold medalist has reportedly rejected a new contract offered by Valencia as he has set his heart on a move to the Emirates.

Arsenal made contact with Valencia regarding a potential deal for Cristhian Mosquera, when at the time the defender was close to joining RB Leipzig. The Gunners may have sensed an opportunity to get a deal done amid uncertainty over the 21-year-old Olympic 2024 gold medalist’s move to Germany.

Valencia rejected the opening offer worth €14 million, with the Gunners widely expected to return with an improved bid. The Spanish strugglers are demanding at least €20 million, as per multiple reports, something Arsenal might be open to paying.

Arsenal are set to submit a new offer worth €20-25 million, although a minor hold-up has emerged due to Valencia’s late decision to hand him a new deal. It appears, Mosquera has rejected the club’s overtures and turned down the new proposal in favour of a move to the Emirates.

It’s a significant boost for Mikel Arteta’s side in pursuit of the defender, as they already have personal terms in place with Mosquera. The move could enter the decisive stages, as all eyes will be on Arsenal’s new proposal, which could land as early as next week to test Valencia’s resolve.

Arsenal are closing in on Mosquera

Many factors place Arsenal as the front runners for Mosquera, starting with the defender’s contract that expires in 2026. Valencia are under tremendous pressure to keep him or cash in, as the new deal only offered 3 million in salary, with Arsenal’s contract set to see the defender earn more.

The Gunners are likely to take a relaxed approach as they are not desperate to sign a new defender. Mosquera is only seen as a backup to William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes, meaning Arsenal can afford to wait for longer on the 21-year-old Olympic 2024 gold medalist. Hence, there’s optimism to get a deal done for Mosquera, who could soon play at the Emirates.