Arsenal and Newcastle United will battle it out for Celta Vigo’s Óscar Mingueza this summer.
The Spaniard’s contract expires on June 30th and he hasn’t accepted the renewal proposed by the La Liga side.
His contract situation favours Arsenal, Newcastle United or other clubs keen on the 27-year-old.
In January and February, Sport Witness covered claims from Spain of Eddie Howe’s side looking at the right-back, who can also operate as a centre-back.
Two months ago, we relayed news that Arsenal, Aston Villa and Fulham are all chasing him.
Arsenal and Newcastle United keen
Fast forward to June and AS state Celta Vigo’s efforts to renew Óscar Mingueza’s contract haven’t been successful.
Celta Vigo sporting director Marco Garcés almost gave up on extending his contract in April.
At that time, he said: “Mingueza has bidders with more money than we do.”
It’s an open secret the former Barcelona man will leave as a free agent and has to decide his next destination this summer.
The versatile player’s contract situation and experience make him an attractive option in the market. Among his suitors, Arsenal and Newcastle United are the two teams ‘most interested’ in securing his services.
Mikel Arteta likes his compatriot and is backing the Gunners’ pursuit. If Mingueza were to end up at the Emirates, he will play in the Champions League next season.
That won’t be possible at St. James’ Park next season as Newcastle United didn’t qualify for Europe. This could give the north London club an edge over Eddie Howe’s side to sign the Celta Vigo player.
The race to sign the defender is open and the Premier League winners and the Magpies are ahead.
Contract, stats, value and agent info
Oscar Minqueza
Óscar Mingueza managed a goal and six assists from 47 matches for Celta Vigo this season.
With a contract expiring this month, Transfermarkt value him at €18m. British agency Unique Sports Group, who negotiated Anthony Gordon’s move from Newcastle United to Barcelona in May, represent the defender.
Both the sporting project and the financial offer could be key for the player to decide his next club.