According to a report by Spanish outlet Estadio Deportivo, Aston Villa and West Ham United are interested in Oscar Mingueza. The two Premier League clubs are eager to bolster their defensive units by signing a versatile defender this summer. The 26-year-old Celta Vigo utility man has entered the final six months of his contract, and a Bosman move to the Premier League may be on the cards.
Aston Villa and West Ham are not alone in the battle for the Spaniard’s signature, as AC Milan, Atalanta, Como, Juventus, and Marseille are also vying for his services. However, the latest report has brought good news for the English clubs, citing “his imminent change of representation agency, which has a strong presence in England, his future could lie closer to British football”.
Oscar Mingueza has revived his stuttering fortunes since joining Celta Vigo from Barcelona in a Bosman move in July 2022. While the 26-year-old enjoyed some pleasant moments during his stint with the Blaugrana, he could not become an undisputed first-choice starter. However, he has turned things around in the last four seasons, having been a mainstay at the back for the Galician outfit.
Mingueza has made nearly 150 appearances for Celta Vigo thus far while chipping in with seven goals and 15 assists. However, the Spanish defender’s long-term future is uncertain, as he has entered the final six months of his contract with Celta Vigo and will likely leave the club as a free agent. The situation has piqued the attention of several well-known clubs, including Aston Villa and West Ham United.
Oscar Mingueza has been on Aston Villa’s radar for a long time. The continued interest makes sense, as Matty Cash is the only dependable right-back in Unai Emery’s squad. Additionally, Mingueza’s ability to play as a centre-back makes him an appealing target for Aston Villa.
As for West Ham United, the Hammers hold a long-standing interest in Mingueza. While Nuno Espirito Santo has two right-backs in his squad, the Spaniard is an option worth considering, as it is unclear if Axel Disasi will complete a permanent move to the London Stadium this summer. Additionally, Jean-Clair Todibo, Max Kilman, and Konstantinos Mavropanos have been dreadful during their spells with West Ham.
While Aston Villa and West Ham hold the edge in the battle for the 26-year-old Spanish defender’s signature, the Villans may feel they are the front-runners to sign him, as they are likely to offer European football next season.
