The name of Oscar Mingueza has been doing the rounds in and around FC Barcelona of late, with the former La Masia defender excelling this season at Celta Vigo.
The 25-year-old has been one of the best full-backs in La Liga this season which has captured the attention of his boyhood club.
As reported earlier, Barcelona are weighing up the possibility of re-signing Mingueza, who has a release clause of €20 million in his contract at Celta Vigo, in January.
The fact that Barça hold a 50% future sell-on clause would mean they can sign the Spaniard for just €10 million.
A three-way battle
However, according to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona find themselves in a complex three-way battle for the signature of Mingueza.
The 25-year-old defender’s impressive performances this season have caught the eye of not only his former club but also Italian giants AS Roma while Celta Vigo also remain determined to keep hold of him.
As mentioned earlier, Mingueza, who is under contract with Celta until 2026, has a release clause set at €20 million.
However, the situation is complicated by Barcelona’s retention of 50% of the player’s economic rights, a factor that puts them in a strong position for any potential transfer.
Celta Vigo, keen to secure Mingueza’s long-term future, are preparing to offer the defender a contract extension. This move would aim to increase his release clause and ward off potential suitors.
Simultaneously, the Galician giants have expressed interest in acquiring full ownership of Mingueza’s rights from Barcelona, although their initial offer is said to be below the Catalan club’s valuation.
Barcelona, for their part, are reluctant to sell their share of Mingueza’s rights as they are considering bringing the versatile defender back to reinforce their right-back position.
AS Roma’s long-standing interest
Adding another layer of intrigue to the situation is AS Roma’s longstanding interest in Mingueza.
The Italian giants made enquiries about Mingueza last summer and remain keen on securing his services, although they are not prepared to meet his release clause.
Mingueza’s agent, Josep Maria Orobitg, remains alert to the situation and it will be interesting to see how the transfer saga involving Celta, Roma, and Barcelona evolves.
