Arsenal target Celta Vigo defender Oscar Mingueza on free transfer
Arsenal are exploring a summer move for Celta Vigo defender Oscar Mingueza as the Spain international stalls on signing a new contract with the La Liga club.
Mikel Arteta’s side are currently challenging for the Premier League title but are already formulating plans to strengthen their squad at the end of the season.
The North London club have been alerted to the potential availability of the 26-year-old right-back ahead of the upcoming transfer window.
Contract uncertainty in Spain
The former Barcelona player’s current deal expires at the end of the campaign and negotiations over an extension have reportedly reached an impasse.
Celta Vigo sporting director Marco Garces recently confirmed that a renewal offer is firmly on the table.
“The situation is in his hands; he knows he has an offer from us, and we’re waiting for him to make a decision. He hasn’t responded yet.” Marco Garces
Defensive reshuffle at the Emirates
A swoop for the Barcelona academy graduate would likely depend on outgoings within Arsenal’s current defensive ranks.
The Gunners already boast formidable options across the backline, including William Saliba, Gabriel, Ben White and Riccardo Calafiori.
Piero Hincapie is currently on loan at the Emirates Stadium, leaving the club to decide whether to activate an option to sign him permanently.
Meanwhile, Poland international Jakub Kiwior remains contracted to the English giants but could be allowed to complete a permanent switch to Porto.
Stiff competition for signatures
If the English title contenders formalise their interest in the Spanish defender, they will face significant competition from domestic and European rivals.
Premier League trio West Ham, Newcastle United and Aston Villa have all monitored his progress, alongside Juventus and Marseille.
The club’s recruitment team are also assessing alternative full-back options, with Newcastle’s Tino Livramento reportedly heavily admired by the Arsenal hierarchy.
Arteta is also exploring further La Liga reinforcements, with Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez remaining a genuine target to bolster their attacking line.
