Arsenal are plotting a transfer bid for teenage World Cup sensation Gilberto Mora, according to reports in Mexico. The 17-year-old further enhanced his reputation as one of the most exciting young talents in world football across Mexico's campaign, starting three of the co-hosts' five matches at this summer's tournament. The third and final start came in the early hours as England brought Mexico's journey to a halt, with Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane inspiring the Three Lions to a famous last-16 victory at the Azteca.
Premier League giants circle
According to Mexican publication El Universal, Mora's performances have attracted the attention of top European clubs. His team, Club Tijuana, are increasingly resigned to losing their prized possession. It is claimed Tijuana's hierarchy 'know it's only a matter of time' before Mora leaves Mexico for Europe and have therefore inserted a £18.4 million buyout clause in his contract. The report adds that Liverpool and Arsenal are 'already planning to pay that amount to acquire' Mora, with a potential bidding war forecast between the two Premier League giants.
Nicky Butt's praise
Former Manchester United and England midfielder Nicky Butt suggested the teen had the talent to play for a club of Barcelona's stature within two years. Impressed by how Mora coped with the extraordinary atmosphere at the Azteca given his tender years, Butt said on The Good, The Bad & The Football: 'I tell you what, the young kid, the 17 year old, he'll be at Barcelona in the next two years. If you watch him, he's just a complete and utter Barcelona player. Honestly, he was unbelievable. Imagine that, 17 and playing in that atmosphere. They brought him off but he was brilliant.'
Rapid rise
In August 2024, Mora became the third-youngest player to feature in Mexico's Liga MX when he debuted for Club Tijuana aged just 15 years, ten months and five days old. Since then, he has established himself as a central squad member, racking up ten goals and two assists in 53 appearances for his boyhood team. Mora has three years remaining on his current deal with Club Tijuana.
