Celta Vigo Faces Dilemma Over Mingueza Amid Growing Interest

Mingueza has rapidly emerged as one of the most sought-after defenders in La Liga, prompting Celta Vigo to confront the possibility of parting ways with him for much less than anticipated, or even for free. The 26-year-old’s rights are shared equally between Celta and Barcelona, and he has attracted interest from several Premier League clubs including Newcastle, Aston Villa, and West Ham, alongside Leipzig and Marseille from other leagues. According to reports from Mundo Deportivo, all five clubs are gearing up for potential moves once the January transfer window opens.

Last summer, Celta rejected offers ranging from €12 million (£10 million/$13 million) to €14 million (£12 million/$15 million), aiming instead for a contract renewal. However, negotiations have stagnated since autumn, and Mingueza’s playing time has diminished in recent weeks. With his contract set to expire in June 2026, other clubs see an opportunity to act swiftly or wait for the circumstances to deteriorate further. Although Barcelona, who sold the defender in 2022 following his breakthrough season under Ronald Koeman, still hold 50% of his rights and could benefit from a future sale, they are unlikely to re-sign him due to their current depth at the right-back position with Jules Kounde and Eric Garcia.

Mingueza’s impressive performances in Galicia have established him as one of Celta’s most dependable players across various positions, attracting attention from clubs in search of athletic and technically proficient full-backs. As interest mounts, Celta’s previous reluctance to sell may come at a cost.

The growing list of interested parties underscores the former La Masia graduate’s increasing market value. Premier League clubs consider him a unique asset: a versatile defender capable of playing as a right-back, centre-back, and even in a wide centre-back role within a back three. Newcastle view him as essential depth for their European ambitions, while Villa sees him as a potential long-term addition to their aggressive high-line strategy. Leipzig’s interest aligns with their recruitment model that targets versatile players in their mid-20s, and Marseille is under pressure to enhance their squad with more athletic full-backs.

For Celta, this moment presents a strategic dilemma: their decision to reject mid-tier offers last year aimed to protect the player’s value, but the failure to negotiate a contract extension has left them vulnerable. His €20 million (£17 million/$22 million) release clause complicates negotiations, particularly since Barcelona would receive €10 million (£8 million/$11 million) from any transfer fee.

Rival clubs are aware that Celta must soon decide between negotiating now or risking a depreciating asset as he enters the final year of his contract. This situation explains why several clubs are prepared to wait until June, when uncertainty peaks and the negotiating power shifts definitively towards the buying side.

Mingueza’s development at Celta has been noteworthy. After departing the Catalan giants, where he initially thrived under Koeman but fell out of favor with Xavi, he found consistent playing time and regained his confidence in Galicia. His ability to progress the ball, defend effectively in one-on-one situations, and adapt to various systems has been acknowledged by analysts and scouts throughout Europe.

Newcastle’s interest stems from ongoing injuries within their defensive lineup, while Villa is focused on building a squad capable of sustaining European competition through the spring. Despite their struggles, West Ham remains interested but is perceived as a long-shot candidate due to their current league position and uncertainties regarding their long-term strategy.

Celta’s attempts to renew Mingueza’s contract have faltered partly due to his declining influence in recent months, which has emboldened interested clubs. Internally, Barcelona is hoping for movement in January, as any transfer would provide them with an immediate financial boost.

As the transfer window approaches, Celta must decide whether to reengage in renewal discussions, entertain incoming bids, or hold firm until summer. The latter option carries risks, as failing to extend Mingueza’s contract could leave them in a precarious negotiating stance. Newcastle and Villa are poised to formalize their interest in January, while Leipzig is observing the situation for long-term planning. Barcelona will continue to monitor developments, anticipating that a winter transfer could trigger their 50% share.

All eyes are now on January, a pivotal moment for Celta as they must choose between safeguarding their asset or acknowledging that Europe’s elite clubs are prepared to act decisively for a player whose market momentum shows no signs of abating.