Barcelona could use Oscar Mingueza as a makeweight in the deal to sign Brazilian winger Raphinha from Leeds United this summer.
According to SPORT, Barcelona may have found a bargaining chip that can help them in their pursuit of Leeds United star Raphinha in the form of Oscar Mingueza. The La Masia graduate is believed to be a subject of interest from the Whites, and the Catalans could now offer him in a part-exchange deal to get their man.
Raphinha has enjoyed a fine run since arriving at Leeds United from Rennes in the summer transfer window of 2020. The 25-year-old played a critical role in the club being able to maintain their Premier League status last term and has been one of their standout performers this term in their ongoing relegation battle.
However, Raphinha’s time at Elland Road seems set to come to an end in the summer as the winger has his heart set on a transfer to Barcelona. The Blaugrana have made the Brazilian international their priority target as they look to replace Ousmane Dembele, who is bound for the exit doors as his contract expires at the end of the season.
Indeed, Barcelona have already tabled an offer of €35 million for Raphinha, which was promptly turned down by Leeds United, who pointed to his €75 million release clause. But, the Catalan giants may have found a way to get Leeds to reduce their asking price as defender Oscar Mingueza could be used as a makeweight in the deal.
The La Masia graduate, who made his breakthrough for Barcelona last season, has fallen down the pecking order this term and has hardly been called upon by manager Xavi Hernandez. The situation will only worsen for the Spaniard, with Barcelona expected to sign a new right-back and at least one new centre-back.
Mingueza is a player that is of interest for Leeds United. The Whites are understood to have enquired about the 22-year-old defender, who they believe has the right profile to succeed in the Premier League. Given the lack of depth in the right-back slot, Leeds can use a player like him, who can also offer cover at the heart of the defence.
Mingueza, for his part, could be open to leaving in the summer to play regularly, something that has not been possible of late at Barcelona. The Catalans could speed up the process to sign Raphinha by transferring the 22-year-old to Leeds as part of the deal or even allowing him to join the Premier League club on loan.
It now remains to be seen if there is any development on this front in the coming weeks as Barcelona step up their pursuit of Raphinha, who is also attracting interest from Liverpool and Manchester City.
