Liverpool have lined up versatile Celta Vigo defender Oscar Mingueza as a replacement for potentially outbound first-team right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold. The Reds have a very busy summer window ahead after limiting their spending during the first season under Arne Slot.
The new head coach inherited a strong squad from the legendary Jurgen Klopp and used the season to assess them. However, the potential departure of Alexander-Arnold to Real Madrid and recent elimination from the Champions League demands a healthy shakeup.
Liverpool also lost the Carabao Cup final to Newcastle United as their sudden trouble reminded them of last season’s downfall. Just like the current season, the senior squad struggled to maintain their consistency throughout the last season, suffering late losses.
Celta Vigo defender Oscar Mingueza is a potential Liverpool transfer target.
Celta Vigo defender Oscar Mingueza is a potential Liverpool transfer target.
Furthermore, what many would consider a betrayal from Alexander-Arnold could provide an opportunity to strengthen the defensive vulnerabilities at Liverpool. The Reds’ opponents have specifically targeted the right side of the defence due to the weaknesses in Alexander-Arnold’s defensive game.
Slot demands more control of spaces and possession, both defensively and in offence, along with mental fortitude from the players. The Dutchman uses tactical variations and deploys his players in different roles within a position and also at different positions.
According to Fichajes, Liverpool wants Celta defender Mingueza as a potential replacement for Alexander-Arnold with a cheap valuation of just €20 million. Standing at 1.84 metres, Mingueza has the versatility to play in numerous defensive positions and in different roles.
The 25-year-old is a product of the famous La Masia academy and left Barcelona for Celta in 2022. Mingueza’s capability to play as a centre-back, right-back and also as a left-back is a major bonus for any team.
Player analysis based on La Liga data: Oscar Mingueza
Furthermore, the Spanish international has developed well since joining Celta as he received more La Liga experience. Mingueza has three goals and five assists in La Liga for his club this season, displaying his efficiency in attack.
The 25-year-old has a passing accuracy of 81.4% in La Liga this season, with 73 accurate long balls which is at a 100 percentile among the players in La Liga playing at his position. Furthermore, he boasts a 50.7 long-ball accuracy at the 80.5 percentile, along with 21 chances created at the 86.2 percentile.
Mingueza has 19 successful dribbles in La Liga with 43.2% dribble success, showcasing his confidence in possession. Defensively, Mingueza has 103 recoveries at the 90.8 percentile and the tackle-won rate of 62.1% in La Liga. Furthermore, he has a 44.6% ground duels win rate and a 52.9% aerial duels win rate in the La Liga.
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Mingueza is entering the peak year of his career but there’s a lot of room for improvement. Despite his impressive data, there are players in the market who are more worthy to replace a first-teamer like Alexander-Arnold at a club like Liverpool. However, the 25-year-old’s versatility and the cheap price tag make him a very good squad player, capable of competing for the starting role.