Newcastle United are actively exploring the January transfer market as Eddie Howe looks to strengthen his squad for the demanding months ahead, and a new opportunity has now emerged that could see the Magpies go head-to-head with Unai Emery for a former Barcelona player.
With the season reaching a critical stage, Newcastle are keen to add quality rather than numbers, and this latest name fits that approach perfectly.
Despite an inconsistent campaign, Newcastle remain alive in four different competitions and are firmly in the mix for a European qualification spot. The Premier League, however, remains the club’s main focus. Results have been mixed, but the table still offers encouragement, and a strong second half of the season could quickly change the picture. Howe is well aware of this, which is why internal discussions about January signings have already taken place, even if no deal is close to completion yet.
Speaking recently, Howe admitted that conversations around transfers have been limited due to a congested run of fixtures. He also made it clear that injuries will play a major role in shaping Newcastle’s plans. With several key players either sidelined or being carefully managed, the club is staying flexible rather than rushing into decisions that may not fully address their needs.
One area that continues to draw attention is full-back. Injuries to Kieran Trippier and Tino Livramento have exposed a lack of depth, forcing Howe to juggle his options more than he would like. Newcastle have already been linked with Brentford defender Michael Kayode, but another option has now been placed on the table, one that could represent outstanding value.
Reports suggest Newcastle have been offered the chance to sign Oscar Mingueza, currently with Celta Vigo. The Spanish defender, who came through Barcelona’s academy and made his name at the Camp Nou, is also said to have been offered to Aston Villa and West Ham United.
With his contract set to expire in the summer, Mingueza is available for a relatively modest fee, believed to be around £8 million.
Unai Emery is known to be an admirer of the player and has previously explored a move to bring him to Aston Villa. That interest adds a competitive edge to the situation, but it also underlines Mingueza’s quality and reliability at top-flight level. For Newcastle, the appeal lies not only in his price but also in his versatility.
Mingueza is comfortable playing on either side of the defence and can also operate further forward when needed. This flexibility is highly valued by Howe, whose system often relies on full-backs contributing both defensively and in attack.
This season, Mingueza has already recorded a goal and three assists in 21 appearances, showing that he can offer end product as well as defensive cover.
At 25, he is entering what should be the prime years of his career and is keen for a new challenge. Newcastle could secure his services in January for a small outlay, or take the risk of waiting and trying to sign him on a free transfer in the summer.
However, delaying a move comes with obvious risks, especially with other Premier League clubs circling and the player keen to settle his future.
For Newcastle, this feels like the kind of smart market opportunity that has defined their recent recruitment. A proven top-flight player, available at a reduced price, who can immediately strengthen the squad and offer long-term value.
Whether Howe decides to act now or hold fire remains to be seen, but Mingueza is clearly a name worth watching as the January window gathers momentum.
