Aston Villa's carefully laid plans to sign versatile defender Óscar Mingueza have been thrown into doubt following the dramatic entry of a Premier League rival into the transfer race. Newcastle United, grappling with a severe defensive injury nightmare, have emerged as strong contenders to sign the Celta Vigo star this January, setting up a direct clash with Unai Emery's side.
Newcastle's Defensive Emergency Fuels Late Bid
According to reports from Spanish outlet AS, Newcastle have formally registered their interest in the 26-year-old Mingueza. The Magpies' campaign has been derailed by an avalanche of injuries, particularly in defence, as they compete across four fronts. Their central defensive partnership of Dan Burn and Fabian Schär has been disrupted, while issues persist at right-back.
The situation reached a critical point following a fresh setback for Tino Livramento. The first-choice right-back, recently returned from a knee issue, was forced off after 59 minutes against Bournemouth in the FA Cup with a hamstring injury. He is now expected to miss around two months and 15 matches, leaving manager Eddie Howe desperately short. The crisis became so acute that midfielder Lewis Miley was recently deployed as a makeshift full-back.
Mingueza's profile is uniquely appealing to Newcastle. His ability to play competently as a right-sided full-back and a central defender offers crucial cover in two problem areas. Furthermore, after cashing in on Alexander Isak for £125 million last summer, Newcastle are believed to be in a stronger position regarding the Premier League's Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) than Villa. They can also offer the immediate lure of guaranteed first-team football and Champions League participation this season.
Why Mingueza Remains a Key Target for Aston Villa
For Aston Villa, the pursuit of Óscar Mingueza is a strategic move to bolster a squad thin on defensive options. Birmingham World understands the Spanish international has been on Unai Emery's radar for several months. The manager is keen to add depth to his backline to consolidate Villa's push for a Champions League spot, having missed out agonisingly on goal difference last term.
Villa's own defensive resources have been stretched. First-choice right-back Matty Cash has carried a heavy workload due to injuries to backup Andres Garcia. Meanwhile, central defenders Pau Torres and Tyrone Mings have missed significant portions of the season, limiting Emery's ability to rotate his squad effectively during a demanding schedule.
Emery's extensive knowledge of Spanish football from his time at Villarreal is a significant factor, and he is a known admirer of Mingueza's experience and versatility. Reports of Villa's interest date back to January 2025, and it is speculated that new sporting director Roberto Olabe could now actively pursue the deal. A key incentive for both clubs is that Mingueza is in the final six months of his contract with Celta Vigo, potentially making a transfer more feasible this month.
A Tense Transfer Standoff Develops
The stage is now set for a tense transfer tussle between two ambitious Premier League clubs with contrasting immediate needs. Newcastle's involvement, driven by sheer necessity, complicates what was seen as a clear path for Villa. While Villa can offer a project under a respected Spanish coach and a likely Champions League place next season, Newcastle counter with the financial flexibility from the Isak sale and the promise of instant action in Europe's elite competition.
The coming weeks will reveal whether Aston Villa's long-term planning can withstand the urgent, crisis-driven bid from Tyneside. The outcome could significantly impact both clubs' prospects for the remainder of the season and their defensive planning for the future.
