Barça finds an ally in Aston Villa in the winter market

The winter transfer market is set to be a very busy one at FC Barcelona. Aside from the operations that are 'cooking' in the offices of Spotify Camp Nou, the blue and garnet entity is on the lookout for what may happen regarding the future of some former players of the club whose possible transfers could bring benefits to the culé coffers.

One of these is Óscar Mingueza, who has finally exploded in the ranks of Celta de Vigo and has attracted the interest of several teams across the continent. Barça retains 50% of the player's federative rights, and journalist Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Aston Villa is more than interested in acquiring his services during this month of January.

From Birmingham, they have already started discussions to advance in the possible signing of the defender, and although there is nothing concrete at the moment, the Villains have him as one of their top priorities. His release clause is valued at 20 million euros, a figure that the Vigo club refers to when considering his departure, although here lies the obstacle of the operation.

Celta wants to renew Mingueza

And it is that the team led by Claudio Giráldez wants to continue having Mingueza in their ranks and aims to renew his contract, which expires in 2026. If the Celestes ultimately close the door on the Masia graduate, in the Catalan city they would miss out on the 10 million euros they could earn from his hypothetical sale.

In addition to Aston Villa, RB Leipzig is also tracking the defender. The player is seen as a great market opportunity, and Celta knows that if they do not manage to extend his stay, it is their last chance to cash in on his transfer since the Catalan will enter his last year of contract next season. Meanwhile, at Can Barça, they are rubbing their hands at the prospect of receiving an unexpected income.