Report: £17m Andrea Berta target is now keen to leave with Arsenal set to submit bid

Andrea Berta may have only joined Arsenal as recently as March, but the new Director of Football has seemingly got down to business quickly.

The Italian is tasked with adding new talent to the squad for Mikel Arteta, as the Gunners aim to bridge the gap on Liverpool in the Premier League next season.

Martin Zubimendi is already expected to join Arsenal this summer as Berta uses his knowledge of La Liga to good effect, having spent many years as Director of Football for Atletico Madrid.

Now, Arsenal are readying a bid to sign another player from Spain’s top-flight in Cristhian Mosquera.

Arsenal set to make Cristhian Mosquera bid

Cadena SER are now reporting that Arsenal are preparing to submit a bid for the Spain U21 international.

The Spanish news outlet state that Berta wanted to sign Mosquera during his time with Atletico Madrid, and is now eager to capitalise on a situation at Valencia involving the centre-back.

Cadena SER explain that the 20-year-old is keen to leave the Mestalla this summer as he approaches the final 12 months of his contract, due to the fact he wants Valencia to receive a fee for his departure, rather than run down his deal and leave for free in 2026.

Arsenal are said to meet every requirement Mosquera is seeking from his next club – a side with an ambitious project, playing UEFA Champions League football and a manager in Arteta who can develop him further.

Valencia are aware of the Spaniard’s desire to leave, and recognise they are in a weak negotiating position, so a €20m (£17m) price tag has been set.

Cadena SER add that Atletico Madrid remain keen on signing Mosquera even after the departure of Berta, while Villarreal also want the man from Alicante.

Arsenal may now be looking away from Dean Huijsen

TBR Football understand Arsenal were one of the clubs keen on signing Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth this summer – who has a £50m release clause.

However, the development involving Mosquera – who is available for a lot less than £50m – could suggest Arsenal are now looking for alternatives to the Bournemouth defender, who is also being chased by Liverpool and Real Madrid.

Huijsen recently said he is content at Bournemouth – whereas Mosquera wants to leave – so a move for the Valencia No.3 certainly seems a lot easier to complete.

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