Arsenal are reportedly ready to move decisively for Club Tijuana and Mexico starlet Gilberto Mora, according to a report from El Universal via Metro.
The Gunners are set to pay Mora’s full £18.4m release clause, with sporting director Andrea Berta unwilling to risk a drawn-out bidding process with Liverpool circling.
By bypassing negotiations entirely, Arsenal hope to get ahead of their Premier League rivals and secure the teenager’s signature as quickly as possible.
Mora is just 17 years old but has already accumulated 53 senior appearances for Club Tijuana, a remarkable total that signals he is ready for a significant move.
The young attacker impressed on the biggest stage possible, featuring in four of Mexico’s five matches at the 2026 World Cup before their round of 16 exit to England.
England manager Thomas Tuchel was left impressed by Mora’s performances throughout the tournament, particularly during Mexico’s round of 32 victory against Ecuador.
In that 2-0 win over Ecuador, Mora demonstrated his defensive work rate by winning four of five ground duels, while also contributing two key passes in an all-round display.
Scout Jacek Kulig has previously lauded the teenager as “phenomenal”, and his record of ten goals and two assists across 53 Tijuana appearances underlines his versatility across attacking positions.
Mora registered four goals during the 2025-26 Liga MX Apertura, which was the third-highest tally within the Tijuana squad, further proof of his growing influence at club level.
Arsenal are known to be targeting a young attacking midfielder this summer, having also set their sights on Boca Juniors’ Tomas Aranda, meaning interest in Mora fits a clear pattern of recruitment.
The 12-cap Mexico international can operate as an attacking midfielder, centre-forward, or on the left flank, giving Mikel Arteta significant tactical flexibility if the transfer is completed.
Given his age, an initial loan arrangement could form part of any deal, allowing Mora to develop gradually before potentially challenging for a regular starting berth at the Emirates.
Club Tijuana are fully aware that Mora’s time at the Mexican club is drawing to a close, and a bidding frenzy now appears inevitable with two major Premier League clubs competing for his signature.
At £18.4m, Arsenal and Liverpool both view the release clause as an entirely manageable fee, though it remains a significant investment for a player yet to prove himself in a top European league.