Leeds United are in negotiations with Barcelona over the possibility of signing Barcelona center-back Oscar Mingueza.
Leeds United are interested in acquiring Barcelona defender Oscar Mingueza in the summer, according to Sport (via Sport Witness). They think the 22-year-old defender has what it takes to thrive in England and precisely matches the profile they need. Leeds are eager to sign the Spaniard despite his advanced years.
The Blaugrana's 2020/21 season saw Mingueza make 27 league appearances, a career high for the Blaugrana's academy product. He can play both center back and right back, although his playing time has dropped dramatically since Xavi took over as manager of the team.
Xavi replaced Ronald Koeman as the primary right-back in the starting lineup, while Mingueza was relegated to the bench. The 22-year-old is not a favorite of former Barcelona midfielder Dani Alves, who he favors together with Sergino Dest. Xavi has also deployed him as a central defender, although only on occasion.
Mingueza's contract expires at the end of the current season, and he seems to be on the verge of a transfer. Raphinha's future might be in doubt if the Whites sign him on loan or permanently, giving Barcelona the upper hand. They feel that incorporating Mingueza as part of a deal for Raphinha would be a good way to entice the Premier League club.
Marsch now has Diego Llorente, Robin Koch, Pascal Struijk, Liam Cooper, and Charlie Creswell as alternatives at center back. The Whites are keen to acquire a player who can improve upon the present roster, and they feel Mingueza is the ideal candidate.
As a right-back, Mingueza can offer cover for Luke Ayling, bolstering Leeds' defensive options even more.
The arrangement seems to be a win-win situation for everyone involved. Barcelona will sign Raphinha, a player in their sights for some time, while Leeds will sign Mingueza, a player who will be guaranteed playing time in England. A transfer to Catalonia, where he can compete for championships, would be very beneficial to the Brazilian winger as well.
