Arsenal have stepped up their pursuit of Club Tijuana teenager Gilberto Mora, adding to the competition facing Liverpool for the highly rated Mexican attacking midfielder.
Reports from Mexico indicate that the Gunners have approached Tijuana about a potential deal for the 17-year-old, whose performances at senior level have attracted interest from several leading European clubs.
Arsenal pursuit of Gilberto Mora intensifies
Mora has established himself as one of the most promising young players in Mexican football after impressing for both his club and the national team. His ability to operate in attacking areas has made him an attractive long-term investment.
Liverpool are reported to have made an offer worth more than $50 million, understood to be about £37 million, as they look to secure Mora’s services. Arsenal’s approach could now make the transfer battle considerably more complicated for the Merseyside club.
Mexican outlet El Porvenir has also reported that Mora’s contract contains a release clause of around $28 million. The difference between that figure and Liverpool’s alleged offer has not been explained, leaving the precise financial terms of any potential move unclear.
Real Madrid, Barcelona, Borussia Dortmund and Benfica have also been linked with the teenager. The level of interest underlines the growing competition for his signature.
Mora is due to turn 18 on October 14, when FIFA rules governing transfers of minors allow an international move. Until then, the reported approaches from Arsenal and Liverpool remain part of an increasingly competitive process.
Arsenal would see Mora as a technically gifted addition for the future, although earning regular first-team opportunities at the Emirates Stadium could prove difficult. It remains unclear which club will win the race for the Mexican prospect.
