Newcastle battling Arsenal to sign Oscar Mingueza on free transfer - Report

Newcastle United are set to duke it out with Arsenal over the signing of Celta Vigo's Óscar Mingueza.

Óscar Mingueza has been on Newcastle's radar since November last year and was named as a potential January signing for Ross Wilson.

Ultimately, Newcastle opted against signing anybody in January, instead choosing to put all of their energy into the summer. It was a frustrating move at the time, but it does appear to be paying off given Newcastle's fast start to the window.

The Celta Vigo right-back is thought to be keen on a move to the Premier League and is set to leave the Spanish side on a free transfer when his contract expires late this month.

Mags facing fight to land Mingueza on a free

According to Spanish outlet AS, Newcastle and Arsenal are the two sides most likely to be fighting for the 27-year-old's signature.

The versatile full-back can also play centre-back and as a right wing-back, and would be a solid addition to Newcastle's squad, especially on a free transfer.

Arsenal's interest could complicate matters for the Magpies, though. The Premier League champions can not only boast that title, but obviously have European football to offer the four-times capped Spaniard.

Mingueza has had a poor season

When you add in Arsenal's Spanish manager Mikel Arteta to the mix, Newcastle's chances look pretty slim.

It's not impossible, but it's safe to say that Ross Wilson will be facing an uphill battle should he approach Mingueza after Arsenal have made their interest known.

That said, a lot may depend on the role he's offered at either club, with game time always a factor alongside wages, contract lengths and location.

AS mention in their report the former Barcelona man hasn't hit the same heights this season as he has in previous campaigns, though, which explains why he hasn't made Spain's World Cup squad this time round.