Newcastle United are now interested in signing an "underrated" former Barcelona player, who is keen on a move to the Premier League.
Eddie Howe looking to right the wrongs from last summer
Eddie Howe is poised to remain in charge of Newcastle next season, despite being unable to guide his side to Europe, and the manager is looking to right the wrongs from a difficult 2025 summer transfer window, which saw Liverpool sign Alexander Isak.
Howe said: "Last summer was obviously very difficult for the football club. We were going into the biggest window that we’d had in recent memory without the infrastructure.
"The club were well aware of that, it was an unfortunate situation. But now with Ross Wilson’s’ expertise and experience, and David Hopkinson’s expertise and experience, I think we’re in a much better place to make quicker decisions, better decisions, and conclude deals better and quicker."
It is starting to look like there could be a very early departure, with FC Barcelona closing in on a deal for Anthony Gordon, and one of the La Liga champions' former players is now of interest to the Magpies.
Newcastle keen on signing ex-Barcelona playmaker
According to a report from Sky Sports, Newcastle are now eyeing a move for versatile Celta Vigo defender Oscar Mingueza, who is poised to leave the La Liga side upon the expiration of his contract at the end of June.
Mingueza, who is capable of slotting in at right-back and centre-back, is attracting widespread interest, with Aston Villa also keen, alongside 'top clubs from Italy and Spain, meaning there could be competition for his signature.
However, moving to the Premier League is the 27-year-old's preference, which puts the interested English sides in a strong position.
Although the four-cap Spain international is a defender by trade, he has received plaudits from Ben Mattinson for his ability to create chances.
"Mingueza’s weight of pass is so good. When he’s played at LWB, he’s been so good at cutting onto his right foot and being a creator from deep, slipping passes through the lines or clipping passes over the defence through to the striker.
"Quality ball striking from distance too."
Celta Vigo's Oscar Mingueza in action with Olympique Lyonnais' Steeve Kango
Mattinson has also lauded the playmaker as "underrated", and he chipped in with one goal and six assists in 47 appearances for Celta Vigo last season, with 30 chances created in La Liga ranking him third in the squad.
Oscar Minguez's defensive stats Average per 90 Ranking in Celta Vigo squad
Tackles 1.9 4th
Interceptions 0.4 12th
Clearances 1.7 6th
Recoveries 3.6 8th
Blocks 0.2 9th
Mingueza's availability on a free transfer is an added bonus for Newcastle, who could do with bringing in a new right-back, following Kieran Trippier's departure.
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