Arsenal are eyeing up a free transfer for Celta Vigo star Oscar Mingueza, whose contract expires in the summer, but face competition from the likes of Aston Villa
Celta Vigo defender Oscar Mingueza will see his contract expire this summer
Celta Vigo defender Oscar Mingueza will see his contract expire this summer
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Arsenal are one of several Premier League outfits tracking Celta Vigo defender Oscar Mingueza - which could yet spell the end of Ben White's time at The Emirates.
Mingueza’s contract at the Spanish side is due to expire at the end of the season and the 26-year-old has signed with the English agency Unique Sports Group, leading to suggestions he is favouring a switch to England's top flight. The Celta Vigo star is capable of playing centrally as well as at right-back and is ultimately going to be available for nothing.
That versatility is a key asset and could see White moved on by the Gunners given he and Mingueza would perform a similar role within the squad. White was once a regular, signing from Brighton for £50million back in 2021, but he's seen his opportunities reduced as Arsenal have continued to invest in their backline.
The Gunners, despite boasting one of the best back fours in Europe, are ready to continue adding to it with Newcastle's right-back Tino Livramento also on their radar, reports the Telegraph.
Mingueza could jump up Arsenal's shortlist if Livramento chooses to remain at St James' Park or head elsewhere, with Manchester City also keen. The Celta Vigo defender also has an admirer in Aston Villa boss Unai Emery, who could be preparing for another year in the Champions League.
Villa have kept tabs on Mingueza for some time and keen to add some competition for right-back Matt Cash. Fulham too are ready to join the race and would likely be able to offer Mingeuza the biggest guarantee of regular minutes. The west Londoners though wouldn't be able to offer Euriopean football.
Ben White faces an uncertain future at the Emirates
Ben White faces an uncertain future at the Emirates(Image: Justin Setterfield, Getty Images)
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Mingueza has made four international appearances for Spain and interest in him extends throughout Europe with Juventus also among those keen. Mingueza had come through the ranks at Barcelona before leaving to further his career.
Arsenal are also set to make Piero Hincapie's move permanent this summer having signed him on loan from Bayer Leverkusen. The Ecuadorian is due to cost the north Londoners £45m having established him as back of the backline.
The Gunners missed out on signing Marc Guehi last summer when it became clear he was going to leave Crystal Palace. Liverpool were keen but City ultimately won the race. The struggle facing Mikel Arteta is the established partnership of William Saliba and Gabriel - meaning a new centre-half would likely have to play a back-up role.