Barcelona defender expected to leave the club during the summer transfer window
Barcelona are gearing up for a busy summer ahead with multiple unwanted players expected to depart Nou Camp in order to make way for the new ones.
The names of Philippe Coutinho, Antoine Griezmann and Martin Braithwaite are among the first ones that come to mind as far as departures are concerned. But coach Xavi Hernandez could axe several defensive stars as well.
According to Mundo Deportivo, one of them could be Oscar Mingueza. While the report mostly covers Barça’s pursuit of Raphinha, it appears the club have taken the young defender’s exit “for granted”.
A product of the famed La Masia academy, Mingueza hasn’t had the best of times under Xavi and has failed to establish himself as a first-team regular despite being given multiple opportunities.
Although the 22-year-old still has little more than a year left in his contract, Barcelona are ready to offload him in the summer.
They are even reportedly open to including Mingueza as part of the deal to sign top target Raphinha, knowing Leeds United are keen on the services of the Spanish defensive talent.
It appears the Whites are fond of Mingueza’s defensive versatility, which has proven to be useful for Barcelona on multiple occasions. But it is apparent the 22-year-old lacks the quality to become an elite member of Xavi’s defensive setup.
The defender has earned only 15 league appearances this season, only eight of which have been starts. He hasn’t featured prominently in the cup competitions either, despite the ineligibility of Dani Alves.
Mingueza’s role in the first team could dwindle further as Barcelona continue their operation to bring in Chelsea duo Andreas Christensen and Cesar Azpilicueta, who may be allowed to leave Stamford Bridge in the summer due to an “old promise”.
Despite his struggles, though, Mingueza should not find any difficulties in attracting potential suitors in the summer. It will be particularly interesting to see if the Catalans can use him as a makeweight to sign Raphinha, who has already agreed personal terms with the club.
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