Crystal Palace reach verbal agreement to sign former Barcelona defender Oscar Mingueza | OneFootball

Crystal Palace have reached a verbal agreement to sign former Barcelona defender Oscar Mingueza, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.

Mingueza is set to join Palace on a free transfer after leaving Celta Vigo following the expiration of his contract last month.

Celta had offered the Spain international a new contract, but he opted to leave.

Aston Villa have also been linked with Mingueza, with manager Unai Emery reportedly an admirer.

Palace had made Mingueza a ‘secret’ target, with the club aiming to strengthen their defence to cope with the demands of competing in domestic and European competitions next season.

Mingueza came through Barcelona’s youth ranks before breaking into their first team in 2020. He made 66 appearances across all competitions for the Spanish giants before leaving for Celta.

He enjoyed a brilliant spell with the Sky Blues. He was considered one of the best defenders in La Liga in 2024/25 and was named in last season’s Europa League Team of the Season.

Mingueza featured in 147 matches for Celta, chipping in with seven goals and 15 assists.

The Barcelona academy graduate can play anywhere across the defence. He can also operate as a wing-back, in central midfield or on the right wing.

It remains unclear whether Mingueza’s arrival will influence Maxence Lacroix’s future at Palace, with Chelsea considering a move for him.

Palace, now under the guidance of manager Pierre Sage, are looking to build on last season’s Europa Conference League success.

Stats from transfermarkt.com.