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 during Mexico's campaign at the 2026 World Cup, starting three of the co-hosts' five matches.
World Cup Breakout
Mora's third and final start came in the early hours of July 6 as England eliminated Mexico with a famous last-16 victory at the Azteca Stadium. Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane inspired the Three Lions to a 2-1 win, but Mora's performance drew widespread praise despite the defeat.
According to Mexican publication El Universal, Mora's displays have attracted attention from top European clubs. His team, Club Tijuana, are increasingly resigned to losing their prized asset, having inserted an £18.4 million buyout clause in his contract.
Premier League Interest
The report claims Tijuana's hierarchy 'know it's only a matter of time' before Mora leaves Mexico for Europe. Liverpool and Arsenal are 'already planning to pay that amount to acquire' the attacker, with a potential bidding war expected between the two Premier League giants.
Former Manchester United and England midfielder Nicky Butt suggested Mora could be playing for Barcelona within two years. 'I tell you what, the young kid, the 17 year old, he'll be at Barcelona in the next two years,' Butt said on The Good, The Bad & The Football podcast. '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
Mora debuted for Club Tijuana in August 2024 aged just 15 years, ten months and five days, making him the third-youngest player in Liga MX history. Since then, he has established himself as a key squad member, scoring ten goals and providing two assists in 53 appearances for his boyhood club. He has three years remaining on his current deal.
