Transfers
Fenerbahce’s loan push for Mosquera tests Arsenal’s resolve
Fenerbahce have opened talks to take Arsenal defender Cristhian Mosquera on loan before the summer transfer window closes, after his £13million plus add‑ons move from Valencia to north London last summer. The 22‑year‑old Spain Under‑21 international impressed in his first Premier League season, stepping in for William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes during injuries.
Why Fenerbahce target Mosquera
Head coach Ismail Kartal has personally requested the Gunners star, seeking to strengthen his defence with a loan for the 22‑year‑old. Reports in Turkey suggest the club will test Arsenal’s resolve with a loan offer, hoping to add depth after a season of injury‑hit performances.
Arsenal battled injury problems at the back last season, a trend that continued over the summer, meaning any attempt to sign Mosquera could be turned away. Saliba is expected to miss the opening months with a back injury and Timber remains sidelined with a groin problem, leaving the Turkish side eager to fill the gap.
Implications for both clubs
Mosquera started 20 matches in all competitions last season, proving dependable in a Premier League title‑winning squad and even covering right‑back in the Champions League final against Paris Saint‑Germain. He helped keep a clean sheet in Arsenal’s 3‑0 opening‑day victory over Coventry, underscoring his versatility.
Arsenal have added to their defensive options this summer with Ezri Konsa arriving from Aston Villa for £50million, and Artura has ample cover across his backline with Jurrien Timber, Ben White, Riccardo Calafiori, Piero Hincapie and Myles Lewis‑Skelly all capable of playing in two positions. The final decision on Mosquera is set to be left down to Mikel Arteta, who must weigh the loan against his existing depth.
For Fenerbahce, securing Mosquera would provide a proven Premier League defender to bolster a backline that seeks stability. For Arsenal, losing a reliable Under‑21 option could thin their squad, but the club retains a strong pool of alternatives.
Picture: Pau Barrena/Getty Images captures Mosquera’s rise, while fans will get to see whether the loan materialises. Under the proposed terms, the move could benefit both sides if agreed.