Juventus would beat Real Madrid to the signing of Óscar Mingueza for next season
The Italian club has already held talks with the Spanish defender, and his future is likely to be in Serie A.
The future of Óscar Mingueza appears to be set in stone, and the destination is one of the most prestigious clubs in world football. According to the latest reports from transfer market specialist Fabrizio Romano, the Catalan defender has reached a full pre-contract agreement with Juventus. Mingueza is set to join the Italian giants on June 30, 2026, coinciding with the expiration of his current contract with Celta de Vigo.
This move marks the end of a highly successful chapter at the Balaídos and a massive leap into the Serie A elite. For Juventus, acquiring a player of Mingueza’s age and pedigree as a free agent represents a strategic triumph in a modern market where versatile defenders often command fees upwards of €30 million.
The Jan 1st "Green Light" and Juventus' Quick Strike
Since the clock struck midnight on January 1, Mingueza has been legally permitted to negotiate with foreign clubs under the "Bosman ruling," as he entered the final six months of his deal. Juventus' sporting director acted with surgical precision, moving ahead of several other European suitors who were monitoring the 26-year-old’s situation.
Negotiations accelerated over the past two weeks, culminating in an agreement that ensures the player will head to Turin the moment his obligations in Spain conclude. For Celta de Vigo, the outcome is bittersweet. The Galician club explored every possible avenue to retain their star, offering various renewal formulas and wage increases. However, the allure of the "Bianconeri" and the opportunity to compete for titles proved too strong to ignore.
Celta’s Financial Setback: A Costly Departure
The departure is a significant blow to Celta de Vigo’s long-term planning. Throughout the winter transfer window, the club attempted to facilitate a low-cost sale to ensure they received at least some financial compensation. However, Mingueza’s firm stance on playing out his contract and choosing his own destination effectively blocked any mid-season exit.
By refusing a cut-price sale in January, Celta must now accept losing one of their most valuable tactical assets for zero euros. Unless a shocking turn of events occurs, the Madridista graduate will spend his final months in the light blue kit of Celta, serving as a pillar for the team before embarking on his Italian adventure.
Why Juventus? The Tactical Fit
For Juventus, Mingueza is more than just a bargain; he is a tactical Swiss Army knife. His education at Barcelona’s La Masia academy gave him a level of technical proficiency and ball-playing ability that is rare for a defender.
- Versatility: He is equally comfortable playing as a traditional center-back or as a modern, attacking right-back.
- Modern Profile: In an era where top-tier coaches demand defenders who can initiate attacks and play between the lines, Mingueza fits the profile perfectly.
- Experience: Despite his youth, he has already logged significant minutes in La Liga and the Champions League, making him a "plug-and-play" option for Juve's backline.
A New Chapter in the "University of Defending"
For Mingueza, moving to Italy is a "graduation" into what many consider the world’s most demanding defensive league. Serie A is often described as a tactical university for defenders, and wearing the historic black-and-white stripes of Juventus is a challenge very few can refuse. The Italian club is confident that his arrival will provide the reliability, defensive solidity, and technical resourcefulness needed to return the club to the pinnacle of European glory.
As the 2025/26 season enters its final stretch, Mingueza will look to leave Celta on a high note, knowing that his tickets to Turin are already booked.
