Aston Villa transfer news: Unai Emery scouting "complete" £15m titan who will not cost a penny

Aston Villa are already stepping up their plans for the summer transfer window, as Unai Emery looks to strengthen key areas of his squad.

With defensive reinforcements seemingly high on the agenda, Villa’s recruitment team have been active across Europe in recent weeks.

And a versatile Spain international has emerged as a serious target, though competition is building.

What is the latest on Aston Villa's interest in Oscar Mingueza?

According to TEAMtalk, Aston Villa were in attendance in Girona this weekend to scout Oscar Mingueza, who impressed during Celta Vigo’s 2-1 win.

Sources close to the situation confirm Villa representatives were present as Mingueza registered an assist while operating at right wing-back, further underlining his tactical flexibility.

The 26-year-old, who joined Celta from Barcelona in 2022, is out of contract this summer and is quickly becoming one of the most attractive free-agents on the market.

Celta boss Claudio Giráldez once described him as “a very complete player” and “fundamental” to the team, praising his ability to break lines with passes and carry the ball forward from deep.

Newcastle and Everton also interested in Oscar Mingueza

Villa are not alone in their admiration, as Premier League rivals Newcastle United and Everton also had scouts in attendance, with both clubs long-term admirers of the four-cap Spain international.

Newcastle are assessing their right-back options amid uncertainty over Tino Livramento’s future, while Everton are actively seeking reinforcements in the full-back areas.

Interest is also emerging from Italy and Germany, suggesting the race for Mingueza’s signature will intensify in the coming weeks.

Oscar Mingueza would be a bargain signing for Unai Emery

Valued at around £15million, Mingueza represents a potential bargain, especially given the fact he would not cost a penny in terms of a transfer fee this summer.

For Emery, a former LaLiga manager who values intelligent, technically secure defenders, the appeal is rather evident. Comfortable at right-back, wing-back or centre-half, Mingueza’s versatility would offer tactical flexibility and squad depth.

With growing European interest, Villa may need to move quickly, but securing a “complete” player of his profile on a free transfer would be a shrewd piece of business.