Crystal Palace have moved decisively in the market, reaching an agreement to sign Oscar Mingueza on a free transfer in what looks set to become the first arrival of Pierre Sage's tenure at Selhurst Park. The update was first reported by Fabrizio Romano, with Palace understood to have advanced quickly after fresh talks in the last 48 hours.
For a club whose summer had, outwardly at least, been relatively subdued, this is a notable piece of business. Palace are said to have identified the Spanish defender as a 'secret top target', and the fact the move has been wrapped up without prolonged public noise will be viewed internally as a positive. All terms are now agreed verbally, with the deal regarded as effectively done.
Mingueza joins the market as a free agent after his departure from Celta Vigo, giving Palace a chance to secure a player with top-level experience and tactical flexibility without committing a transfer fee. At 27, he offers a profile that should appeal strongly to Sage, particularly because he can operate at right-back or in central defence.
Photo IMAGO
That versatility could prove important over the coming months. Palace are facing a summer where the defensive unit may yet change further, and bringing in a player capable of covering multiple roles provides some protection against uncertainty. Mingueza has been described as 'phenomenal', and Palace will hope he can bring consistency as well as adaptability.
For a club whose summer had, outwardly at least, been relatively subdued, this is a notable piece of business. Palace are said to have identified the Spanish defender as a 'secret top target', and the fact the move has been wrapped up without prolonged public noise will be viewed internally as a positive. All terms are now agreed verbally, with the deal regarded as effectively done.
Mingueza joins the market as a free agent after his departure from Celta Vigo, giving Palace a chance to secure a player with top-level experience and tactical flexibility without committing a transfer fee. At 27, he offers a profile that should appeal strongly to Sage, particularly because he can operate at right-back or in central defence.
Photo IMAGO
That versatility could prove important over the coming months. Palace are facing a summer where the defensive unit may yet change further, and bringing in a player capable of covering multiple roles provides some protection against uncertainty. Mingueza has been described as 'phenomenal', and Palace will hope he can bring consistency as well as adaptability.
28 days ago
