Valencia youth prospect Yulian Mosquera has caught Real Madrid’s eye. He’s only 15, but the defender is already built for the elite game: 6-foot-4, with pace as another of his calling cards. His upside is such that those who know him best aren’t shy about comparing him to his older brother, Cristhian – and that’s no small thing. We’re talking about an Arsenal center back who is pushing to make Spain’s World Cup squad. That’s the level of expectation. At the same time, Valencia are confident they can secure a contract extension that would effectively put the “Yulian case” on ice.
Valencia keen to tie Yulian down amid Real interest
As ESPN first reported and AS has since confirmed, Madrid’s youth-academy chiefs have been tracking the youngster for some time. And they’re not alone: several clubs from across Europe have taken notice of Yulian’s physical attributes and potential. Still, according to sources close to the talks, discussions between Valencia and the player have been positive so far, as Los Che seek a deal that would keep Yulian in Valencia. That said, while Madrid are keen to avoid any inter-club friction, they are watching closely.
The Mosquera family’s bond with Valencia runs deep. Cristhian’s development and rise at the club, followed by his move to Arsenal, left no scars that might complicate matters for his younger brother. While Yulian is well aware of the interest swirling around him, he and his inner circle feel happy at the club and grateful for the way he’s been treated. The intention – though the finish line hasn’t been crossed just yet – is for the renewal to reach a successful conclusion. To follow Cristhian’s path, all the way to the first team.
That’s always been Yulian’s dream. “[Cristhian] is my reference point,” Yulian told AS back in May 2024. “He’s always by my side and helps me with everything. He gives me advice every day and I’m really happy. We’ve always talked about being like the Williams brothers [Athletic Club’s Iñaki and Nico] and making it to professional soccer together. It would be a complete dream.” Back then, Yulian was a standout for Valencia Under-14s. Now he’s doing the same at Under-16 level and with Spain’s Under-15s, for whom he’s already earned nine caps. At Paterna, there’s confidence he’ll continue climbing the ladder as a ché. But in Madrid, they’re not letting him out of their sight. Just in case.
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