West Ham United are now pushing hard to win the race for an "underrated" former Barcelona player, who is set to be available on a free transfer this summer.
West Ham keen to improve defensive options
West Ham are certainly showing fight in their bid to avoid relegation from the Premier League, and results have improved in recent weeks, collecting ten points from their last five matches, which leaves them three points adrift of Nottingham Forest.
A very poor defensive record is one of the main reasons the Hammers find themselves in a sticky situation, but they have looked more solid at the back as of late, keeping a clean sheet away at Burnley and managing to keep Manchester United at bay until stoppage time.
That said, having conceded 49 goals in 26 matches, some additional reinforcements may be needed in defence during the summer transfer window, and the Irons are now eager to bring in a former Barcelona player.
That is according to a report from Spain, which states West Ham have now identified Celta Vigo right-back Oscar Mingueza as one of their top targets, and they are pushing hard to win the race for his signature, amid widespread interest.
Aston Villa and Newcastle United are also keen on signing the Spaniard, who is set to be available on a free transfer at the end of the season.
oscar-mingueza-celta-vigo
Signing Mingueza is high on the list of priorities for Nuno's side, but they will only make a move for Mingueza if they avoid relegation from the Premier League.
Mingueza could challenge for Wan Bissaka's starting spot
The Celta Vigo defender is a well-rounded full-back, as evidenced by the fact he has created four big chances in La Liga this season, the joint-highest number in the La Liga side's squad, while also averaging 2.3 tackles per 90, which ranks him in third place.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka, on the other hand, has averaged 1.4 tackles per 90 in the Premier League, and has only created one big chance, indicating the Spain international could be capable of pushing for his starting spot.
Not only that, but scout Ben Mattinson has pointed out the 26-year-old is capable of playing in multiple positions, which would make him a useful option for Nuno.
Mingueza could be a solid signing for West Ham, and they will definitely need to strengthen in the summer, regardless of what division they find themselves in, given how this season has gone.
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Lee Hendrie says 28-year-old was a 'liability' for West Ham and Nuno
They're better off without him.