NEWCASTLE’S INSANE £50M BID TO STEAL BARCELONA’S SECRET WEAPON ÓSCAR MINGUEZA – HE’S ALREADY PACKING HIS BAGS!
Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United have entered the 2025/26 season facing a challenge they could have done without — an early injury crisis.
With Lewis Hall and Tino Livramento sidelined, two key fullbacks in Howe’s system, both the team’s form and tactical rhythm have clearly suffered.
As a result, Newcastle may need to seek additional depth in the defensive areas during the January transfer window.
Reports from Spain suggest that the Magpies are among several clubs showing interest in Celta Vigo right-back and former Barcelona academy graduate Oscar Mingueza.
The 26-year-old, who is entering the final year of his deal with the La Liga side, has caught the attention of Newcastle, Aston Villa, and West Ham, according to Spanish outlet AS.
Interest extends beyond England too, with Marseille, Como, Atalanta, and AC Milan all monitoring his situation closely.
Celta Vigo face a dilemma, as Mingueza looks unlikely to extend his contract and could walk away as a free agent next summer.
The club reportedly turned down multiple offers in the last transfer window due to a 50% sell-on clause inserted by Barcelona, complicating their stance on his potential sale.
At the same time, Newcastle are beginning to plan for life after Kieran Trippier.
The 35-year-old fullback, who earns over £100,000 per week, has entered the twilight of his career, with Monaco and clubs in Saudi Arabia believed to be exploring moves for him.
His possible departure would create both a leadership gap and a tactical void on the right flank.
Given this, Mingueza could be a smart, long-term addition to the squad, offering valuable depth behind Livramento while providing a reliable replacement option for Trippier.
This would be particularly useful if Emil Krafth departs for Copenhagen, as recent rumours suggest.
However, Newcastle must tread carefully. As seen in previous transfer pursuits, including that of Alexander Isak, some players may hesitate to join knowing they could be second choice behind established starters.
Before launching a formal pursuit of Mingueza or any other fullback, the club must first determine Trippier’s future.
Only then can Newcastle confidently structure their negotiations and clearly define where a new signing would fit into Howe’s long-term plans.
