Barcelona leave the door open for 24-year-old former defender’s return

It has been almost two years since Barcelona decided to offload Oscar Mingueza, who was once considered one of the most promising defensive talents to come out of La Masia.

While Mingueza might have failed to realise his potential at Camp Nou, the defender has certainly done well in his current stint at Celta Vigo.

Mingueza joined Celta in the summer of 2022 on a free transfer. Since then, he has become an ever-present figure in the team’s defensive line, racking up 55 competitive appearances.

Barcelona not ruling out Mingueza’s return

Mingueza’s performances at Celta Vigo have not unnoticed, with even Barcelona not ruling out the potential return of the defender this summer.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona are closely monitoring Mingueza’s progress at Celta Vigo.

The Blaugrana are aware of the fact that the former La Masia graduate has been one of the bright spots in an otherwise poor campaign for Celta this season.

Mingueza’s current deal at the club expires in 2026, but with the team battling with relegation, he could leave Estadio de Balaidos much sooner.

Several European clubs are already keen on acquiring the services of Mingueza, who was recently involved in an altercation with Vinicius Junior.

Mingueza was involved in an altercation with Vinicius recently (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

To his credit, Mingueza showed immense composure and avoided an unnecessary fight, despite the advances of Vinicius and later, Lucas Vazquez.

Market opportunity for Barcelona?

Such composure could be highly valued by Barcelona, who are on the hunt for defensive reinforcements ahead of the summer transfer window.

Mingueza’s work ethic, coupled with his versatility in the defensive third make him an appealing option for the Catalan backline next season.

It must be noted that Barcelona had reserved 50% rights to a future sale, meaning they could get hold of Mingueza for half the price in the coming summer.

The report does, however, add that Mingueza is not among Barça’s top targets. But a potential free transfer in the future has not been ruled out, even though the idea appears to be very unrealistic at this point.