Arsenal are closing in on the signing of Cristhian Mosquera after the defender flew to London on Tuesday morning. The Gunners are putting the finishing touches to a deal with Valencia that is understood to be below the Spanish club’s initial £17million asking price.

Cristhian Mosquera has opened up on the emotional strain of leaving Valencia ahead of his transfer to Arsenal. The Spanish club appear to have failed in their attempts to convince the defender to sign a new contract and remain with them.

Arsenal target Cristhian Mosquera has appeared to confirm his Valencia departure, claiming he is leaving "home" to begin a "new era."