Palace sign Spain defender Mingueza on free transfer

Oscar Mingueza won the Copa del Rey while playing for Barcelona in 2021 [Getty Images] Crystal Palace have signed Celta Vigo defender Oscar Mingueza on a free transfer, subject to international clearance. The 27-year-old Spaniard joins Palace on a four-year contract and is new head coach Pierre Sage's first summer signing. Mingueza is a product of Barcelona's La Masia academy and made 66 appearances for the club following his senior debut in 2020. The versatile defender then joined Celta Vigo in 2022, where he scored seven goals and provided 15 assists in 147 appearances. Mingueza said "it is an honour" to be joining Palace and added he is "really excited" to be at Selhurst Park. He has been capped four times by Spain, however he was not included in manager Luis de la Fuente's 26-man squad for this summer's World Cup. Palace appoint Sage as head coach on three-year deal Palace chairman Steve Parish said: "We are delighted to welcome a player of Oscar's quality and character to the club. "His track record speaks for itself, with experience at the highest level for both club and country. "We believe he will be a fantastic fit for Crystal Palace." Palace travel to Everton for their opening game of the new Premier League season on Saturday, 22 August at 15:00 BST. Latest Crystal Palace news, analysis and fan views Ask about Crystal Palace - what do you want to know?