Valencia CF is reportedly angered by Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta’s seemingly innocuous comment about the younger brother of newly signed player Cristhian Mosquera. The Gunners completed the £13 million (potential £18 million) transfer of Mosquera, a move that followed weeks of speculation and the player’s refusal to renew his contract with Valencia. In a statement, Valencia cited Mosquera’s clear desire to join Arsenal as the reason for the sale, expressing discontent at losing the player for less than his market value.
However, the situation escalated following Mosquera’s unveiling. Arteta, handing a pen to Mosquera’s younger brother, Julian, jokingly remarked, “So you can visualise it for the future,” a comment interpreted by Valencia as a ‘threat’ to sign the 14-year-old prodigy. While FIFA regulations prevent such a transfer until Julian turns 16, Valencia, who consider him one of their brightest prospects, are unhappy with Arteta’s words.
Meanwhile, Arsenal’s summer spending spree continues, totaling approximately £135 million so far, with additions including Kepa Arrizabalaga, Christian Norgaard, Martin Zubimendi, and Noni Madueke. The club is also reportedly close to securing Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting CP for €63.5 million plus €10 million in potential bonuses. This follows speculation surrounding other forward targets and further highlights Arsenal’s ambition in the current transfer window.