Report: Arsenal among clubs pushing to sign free-agent defender

Oscar Mingueza 3
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Arsenal are reportedly interested in signing Celta Vigo defender Oscar Mingueza this summer.

The Gunners are expected to be active in the transfer market once again, with several areas of the squad set to be strengthened ahead of next season.

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One of those positions is at full-back, with Mikel Arteta keen to add further depth to his defensive options.

Arsenal have been linked with several defenders in recent months, including Newcastle United’s Tino Livramento and Sporting CP duo Maxi Araujo and Ivan Fresneda.

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Oscar Mingueza

Previous reports have also suggested that Arsenal are among the clubs monitoring Celta Vigo right-back Oscar Mingueza.

Now, a fresh update has emerged regarding the Spaniard’s future.

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Arsenal and Newcastle leading summer race for Mingueza

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According to Diario AS, Arsenal and Newcastle United are the two clubs showing the strongest interest in signing Mingueza.

The 27-year-old is set to become a free agent this summer after contract negotiations with Celta Vigo stalled.

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It is understood that Arteta is a big admirer of the defender and is driving Arsenal’s interest in a potential deal.

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Mingueza made 47 appearances across all competitions during the 2025/26 season, registering one goal and six assists.

What happens next?

Arsenal are set to step up their plans as the summer transfer window now officially open, with the club continuing to hold internal discussions over potential targets. Mikel Arteta and Andrea Berta are both believed to be actively assessing several options as preparations for next season continue behind the scenes.

The Gunners are expected to be among the busiest Premier League clubs this summer, with several positions under review. Any move will ultimately depend on availability, financial conditions and how Arsenal prioritise their targets during the transfer window.

The bigger picture

Arsenal’s recruitment team continues to focus on players who fit the club’s long-term strategy under Mikel Arteta. Technical quality, tactical intelligence and versatility remain key attributes as the club assesses potential additions ahead of the new campaign.

The club has consistently looked to add players capable of improving both the starting XI and overall squad depth, particularly with the demands of competing in the Premier League and Champions League. Arsenal are expected to strengthen multiple areas of the squad this summer and continue to monitor opportunities across Europe and South America.

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Arsenal are expected to make several important decisions regarding the composition of the squad this summer. While strengthening key areas remains a priority, the club could also consider offers for certain players if it helps fund new arrivals and maintain financial flexibility.

Securing the futures of key players remains just as important as making new signings. Arsenal have worked hard to build one of the strongest squads in Europe, and maintaining stability within the group will be crucial as the club looks to continue competing for major honours.

Our View

If the reports are accurate, this would appear to be a move that makes sense for Arsenal. Oscar Mingueza is set to become a free agent this summer, meaning Arsenal could secure a bargain.

The 27-year-old’s versatility and experience makes him an attractive option for Mikel Arteta’s side, while it also gives Arsenal the chance to spend significant money on other key positions.

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The club are expected to strengthen the defence during the summer, and the player’s profile seems to align with the type of recruitment strategy Mikel Arteta has favoured in recent years.

Whether Arsenal decide to advance their interest remains to be seen, but it is easy to understand why the player is being linked with a move to North London.

For more Arsenal transfer updates, follow our LIVE blog!

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