Aston Villa Considering £34m Defender as Mingueza Alternative

Aston Villa are reportedly keeping close tabs on UD Almeria defender Marc Pubill as a potential alternative to their primary target Oscar Mingueza. The 21-year-old Pubill has a release clause of £34 million in his current contract.

While Villa have been linked with a move for Celta Vigo’s Mingueza to upgrade their right-back position, they have yet to submit an official bid according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. This has led the club to explore other options, with Pubill emerging as an intriguing prospect.

At just 21 years old, Pubill is four years younger than Mingueza and could offer Villa a long-term solution at right-back. However, his hefty release clause may give the club pause, especially for a player who is still developing.

Villa manager Unai Emery appears keen to strengthen the right-back position currently occupied by Matty Cash. While Pubill is an exciting talent, Mingueza remains the priority target given his experience and immediate readiness to compete for a starting role.

As the January transfer window progresses, Villa are positioning themselves as one of the Premier League clubs to watch. Their pursuit of attacking reinforcements like Donyell Malen, coupled with their interest in defensive upgrades, signals the club’s ambition to solidify their place as Champions League contenders.

With Mingueza demonstrating superior attacking output this season compared to Cash, it’s clear Villa are seeking a more offensively-minded right-back. Whether they ultimately land Mingueza, Pubill, or another target, Cash’s days as an automatic starter appear to be numbered as Emery reshapes the squad.

As the transfer deadline approaches, Villa fans can expect more developments in the club’s pursuit of reinforcements across multiple positions. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether Villa can secure the pieces needed to maintain their impressive form in the second half of the season.