Aston Villa Plot Free Transfer For Versatile Defender: Right Move For Emery? | OneFootball

Oscar Mingueza is set to depart Celta Vigo when his contract expires at the end of June, and Aston Villa are now considered the clear frontrunners to secure his signature. Sky Sports journalist Patrick Rowe has confirmed, as relayed via Sport Witness, that Villa and Newcastle United are among the Premier League clubs interested in signing the versatile defender. The story, also covered extensively by TuttoSport, reveals that Juventus made a formal approach for Mingueza during the January window, but a deal collapsed after Celta Vigo demanded €2m in compensation that the Italian club refused to pay. That decision may now cost Juventus dearly.

Aston Villa Close In On Free Transfer As Celta Vigo Star Prepares To Leave

Mingueza recorded a goal and seven big chances created across 34 La Liga appearances this season, also featuring 11 times in the Europa League. His representatives at British agency Unique Sports Group have had no contact with Celta Vigo over a renewal, which signals clearly where his future lies.

According to TuttoSport, Aston Villa have made a decisive move for the 27-year-old, offering him Champions League football and a wage package that surpasses what Juventus put on the table. Arsenal and Fulham are also in the race, though Villa and Arsenal hold a structural advantage, as both clubs are almost certain to play Champions League football next season.

Aston Villa’s Defensive Picture Makes This Signing Compelling

Matty Cash remains the only dependable right-back at Aston Villa, and Mingueza’s ability to operate at centre-back adds further appeal for Unai Emery. Villa need proper depth if they are serious about competing across four competitions next season, and Mingueza represents a far more convincing option than the current alternatives at right-back. The former Barcelona academy product has made close to 150 appearances for Celta Vigo since joining on a free transfer in 2022, building considerable experience across three backline positions.

Why Aston Villa Should Prioritise This Deal?

VIGO, SPAIN – APRIL 16: Oscar Mingueza of RC Celta Vigo is challenged by Jan-Niklas Beste of SC Freiburg during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 Quarter-Final Leg Two match between Real Club Celta and SC Freiburg at Estadio Balaidos on April 16, 2026 in Vigo, Spain. (Photo by Diogo Cardoso/Getty Images)

Here is where the decision becomes straightforward for Villa. Signing Mingueza costs nothing in transfer fees, adds genuine versatility across the entire defensive line, and arrives at an age where a player typically hits the peak of his consistency. Villa have reportedly pursued him across multiple windows, and that persistence carries meaning. One of Mingueza’s most appealing qualities is his ability to operate on either flank, giving any potential suitor considerable flexibility across the backline.

The Champions League carrot is real deal. Juventus cannot offer European football of that standing right now, and Fulham cannot offer it at all. Villa hold a position that is genuinely difficult for rivals to match, and acting quickly removes the risk of Arsenal pressing their own advantage. AC Milan, Atalanta, Como, and Marseille have also registered interest, so the competition extends well beyond England.

For Aston Villa, securing a proven La Liga and Europa League performer without spending a single pound on a fee, while filling a long-standing gap in the squad, is the kind of transfer that builds squads capable of competing on multiple fronts. This one makes sense at every level.