Brighton and Hove Albion’s chances of getting Barcelona youngster Óscar Mingueza have been handed a boost, with him considering leaving the Nou Camp.
That’s according to Estadio Deportivo, who say Mingueza is debating his future at the Catalan giants despite starring under Ronald Koeman this season.
Mingueza has established himself as a regular for Barcelona this year, with a series of defensive injuries giving him his chance to impress.
That is something he has done, with Monday seeing him surpass 30 appearances and earn further praise.
An ‘astute, impetuous centreback with a great output of the ball’, Mingueza has earned himself plenty of plaudits and admirers and is considered ‘one of the great revelations’ this season.
However, Estadio Deportivo say that doesn’t mean he’ll be remaining at the club, with it explained that Mingueza is yet to hear from Barcelona about a new contract.
That, plus the fact he could find himself behind Emerson, Eric García, Gerard Pique, Clement Lenglet and Ronald Araujo next season, means he is considering his future.
He believes his chances ‘would be minimal’ and doesn’t want to see his progression slow down, meaning he could seek a move away.
That is where Brighton come into it. Several reports in Spain have named them as suitors, with the last at the beginning of this month stating their interest had ‘transcended’.
Estadio Deportivo don’t name them explicitly here but say Mingueza has ‘plenty of options’ to continue his development away from Barcelona, and it is likely the Seagulls are one of them.
The player does not rule out a transfer elsewhere either, meaning Brighton could have a chance if they do make a move.
For now, that hasn’t happened as the players entourage insist there have been no calls from anyone, not even to discuss a hypothetical.
The interest is there, though, and with the player considering his future Graham Potter and co might want to keep an eye on things to see how they develop.
