West Ham’s season may finally be showing signs of life.
Back-to-back wins over Brentford and Newcastle have injected some much-needed optimism under Nuno Espírito Santo after a grim start to the campaign under Graham Potter.
But while results have improved, one problem remains glaringly obvious — the Hammers are leaking goals at an alarming rate.
With 23 conceded in just 11 games, only one Premier League side has a worse defensive record. If West Ham are to pull themselves clear of danger, shoring up the back line is essential.
And it appears the club have zeroed in on a versatile defender with top-level pedigree.
West Ham Ready to Send Proposal for Mingueza
Oscar Mingueza. (REUTERS/Valentyn Ogirenko)
Oscar Mingueza. (REUTERS/Valentyn Ogirenko)
Spanish outlet Fichajes reports that West Ham have sent “clear signals” they are preparing a formal offer for Óscar Mingueza, with Newcastle United and Aston Villa also circling.
Celta Vigo are protected by a £20m release clause, and after rejecting bids of £12–14m in the summer, they are expected to insist on the full amount.
West Ham may need to move quickly, as Celta are still considering offering the defender a new contract — which would push his valuation even higher.
Mingueza, who came through the famed La Masia academy and made over 60 appearances for Barcelona, has been described as “brilliant” by his former club.
His standout trait is his remarkable versatility: throughout his career he has featured at right-back, left-back, centre-back, wing-back, and even in midfield. His natural position, however, is at centre-half — an area where West Ham have struggled badly this season.
With Max Kilman and Jean-Clair Todibo yet to fully convince, Mingueza could provide the blend of experience, composure and adaptability Nuno needs to stabilise his defence.
Whether West Ham can win the race ahead of Premier League rivals remains to be seen, but their intent is becoming clear: defensive reinforcements are a January priority.