Despite holding 50% of the player’s rights, the Blaugrana will likely see the defender leave for free as Juventus eyes a summer pre-contract.
Barcelona have officially missed out on a significant financial windfall following Celta Vigo’s decision to reject a January offer from Juventus for Óscar Mingueza. The Catalan giants, who retained 50% of the economic rights to their former defender, were monitoring the situation closely, hoping a sale would inject much-needed cash into their coffers.
The Celta Block: Sporting over Financial Gain
The decision by the Galician club was twofold. First, manager Claudio Giraldez views Mingueza as an “irreplaceable” pillar of the squad, especially with Celta competing at a high level in La Liga and the Europa League.
Secondly, there was a strategic reluctance to help a league rival. By selling now, Celta would have to split the transfer fee down the middle with Barcelona. Instead, Celta opted to keep the player for the remainder of the season, even if it means losing him for free in June 2026.
Juventus Changes Tactics
While the Bianconeri failed to secure the 26-year-old this winter due to Celta’s €20 million demand, the deal is far from dead. Reports suggest that Juventus has already reached a verbal agreement with Mingueza’s camp for a free transfer in the summer.
The Impact: If Mingueza leaves as a free agent, Barcelona’s 50% clause becomes worthless, leaving the club with zero profit from the defender’s impressive evolution.
Mingueza’s Stellar Season
The former La Masia graduate has transformed into one of the most versatile defenders in Spain.
- Stats this season: 1 goal, 4 assists across 28 appearances.
- Current Market Value: Approximately €18.7 million .
- Versatility: Capable of playing as a right-back, center-back, and even a central midfielder under Giraldez.
Gabriel Lucio is a football analyst covering La Liga, focusing on match analysis, tactical trends, and the race for domestic and European positions.
