Óscar Mingueza’s Stellar Form at Celta Vigo Sparks Aston Villa Transfer Talk
Óscar Mingueza Shines at Celta Vigo Amid Transfer Speculation
Óscar Mingueza, the versatile Spanish defender, has become a cornerstone for Celta Vigo in the 2024-25 La Liga season, drawing attention from top clubs and cementing his status as a rising star. The 25-year-old, a product of Barcelona’s La Masia academy, has been in scintillating form, contributing three goals and five assists in 12 La Liga appearances this season, making him one of the league’s most dynamic full-backs.
Mingueza’s standout performances include a beautiful acrobatic goal in Celta’s 3-2 victory over Sevilla on May 10, 2025, where he finished a precise cross from Fran Beltrán, helping his team retake the lead despite being a man down. Earlier in the season, he recorded 17 crosses in a single match against Espanyol, showcasing his relentless attacking output, though Celta fell 2-0. His ability to play as a right-back, left-back, or center-back has made him indispensable, with no teammate taking more touches or delivering more crosses this season.
The Galician outfit has benefited from Mingueza’s versatility and attacking flair, which aligns with their high-pressing, possession-based style. Reflecting on his move to Celta in 2022, Mingueza said, “The style of football they play, attacking, pressing high, wanting to have the ball, fits my style of play and what I’ve been doing all my life because at Barcelona it’s what they’ve taught us.” His contributions have not gone unnoticed, earning him a call-up to Spain’s squad for the Nations League semi-final against France in May 2025, alongside stars like Gavi and Isco.
However, Mingueza’s stellar form has sparked intense transfer speculation. Aston Villa have emerged as frontrunners, with reports indicating they are in advanced talks to trigger his €20 million release clause in the January transfer window. Manager Unai Emery sees Mingueza as the ideal replacement for Matty Cash, valuing his ability to cover multiple defensive positions. Barcelona, who hold a 50% sell-on clause from Mingueza’s 2022 transfer, stand to gain significantly if the deal materializes, potentially pocketing €10 million.
Despite interest from Aston Villa, Roma, and even a rumored return to Barcelona, recent reports suggest Mingueza is keen to stay with Celta Vigo and is set to begin contract renewal talks to extend his deal beyond 2026. This decision has disappointed Barcelona, who were hoping for a financial boost, but it underscores Mingueza’s loyalty to Celta, where he has played nearly 100 matches and established himself as a fan favorite.
Mingueza’s journey from Barcelona’s youth ranks to a regular Spanish international with three caps highlights his growth. His progressive carries, chance creation, and defensive solidity have drawn comparisons to Gerard Piqué, with scouts praising his tackling, positioning, and passing. Social media buzz reflects his rising stock, with fans on X lauding his transformation into a “proper utility player” who “moves like prime Cafu” and delivers on both ends of the pitch.
As Celta Vigo prepares for upcoming La Liga challenges, Mingueza’s focus remains on the pitch, though his future will likely dominate headlines. Whether he stays in Galicia or moves to a bigger stage, Óscar Mingueza is proving he’s a force to be reckoned with in European football.