Report: Aston Villa have joined the race to sign La Liga defender | OneFootball

Aston Villa Have Joined the Race to Sign La Liga Defender

Aston Villa and Newcastle United have entered the pursuit of Celta Vigo defender Oscar Mingueza, who is high on the list of many clubs according to the latest report from Caught Offside. 

Mingueza, 26, has entered the final six months of his contract, with his current deal set to expire in June. Celta Vigo, wary of losing him for free, are also open to the possibility of a January exit, while also holding talks over a possible contract renewal. The defender’s contractual situation has naturally sparked interest across Europe, not least in England, where Villa, West Ham and Newcastle are “all actively monitoring the situation.”

Contract Pressure and Transfer Value

Caught Offside’s report underlines that the timing is central to any deal. With Celta balancing renewal discussions against the possibility of losing a prized asset for nothing, a sale now protects value and allows reinvestment. The suggested fee, “expected to fall in the €8-10 million range,” appears fair market pricing for a La Liga regular entering free agency. Given that he has made been a regular starter in La Liga this season, clubs would view this as a low to medium risk acquisition with tangible upside.

The article also references alternative deal structures, noting that a loan with an option to buy could also be possible.

Photo: IMAGO

Tactical Fit for Premier League Clubs

One of the strongest selling points highlighted by Caught Offside is his versatility. “Comfortable at right-back, centre-back and even as part of a back three,” he “offers versatility that appeals strongly to clubs competing in physically demanding leagues.” This is a crucial detail. Villa under Emery have increasingly leaned on defenders capable of fluid role switching between phases, particularly full-backs who can tuck into a back three or step into midfield lanes during build-up. Mingueza fits that structural demand.

For Newcastle, the appeal is different but equally compelling. Eddie Howe’s side have suffered periodic defensive absences this season, and a defender who can cover right-back and central roles, without compromising intensity, is a sensible hedge. Caught Offside notes Newcastle “could hold an edge financially” and are “capable of offering a wage package significantly above Mingueza’s current terms in Spain.” Financial muscle matters, but Newcastle’s edge may be as much about Premier League visibility as salary alone.

Interest Beyond England

The chase extends beyond English shores. Marseille, AC Milan, Atalanta and Como are all interested too. This reinforces the notion that Mingueza is not simply a contract expiry gamble, but a defender with genuine multi-league demand, a point echoed by his stylistic suitability to “physically demanding leagues.” France and Italy offer different tactical landscapes, but England presents a platform that blends both physicality and profile growth, something that should not be underestimated when weighing the defender’s priorities.