Transfer Centre

Barcelona suffer blow in Juan Foyth pursuit?

By Ben Sully | 13 March 2023

Barcelona reportedly receive a setback in their pursuit of Villarreal defender Juan Foyth, as they look to strengthen the right side of their defence.

Barcelona have reportedly received a setback in their pursuit of Villarreal defender Juan Foyth.

The Catalan giants extended their lead at the top of the La Liga table to nine points with a narrow 1-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao on Sunday.

Although Barcelona have now kept 19 clean sheets in 25 league games this season, they are still keen to bolster the right side of their defence.

Jules Kounde, who arrived from Sevilla last summer, has often been used as a right-back this term, while the likes of Sergi Roberto, Ronald Araujo and Alejandro Balde have also featured in the role at various points of the 2022-23 campaign.

However, Barcelona are determined to find a permanent solution, and Foyth is viewed as one of their potential targets.

Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior in action with Villarreal's Juan Foyth on January 7, 2023 © Reuters

Xavi's side were linked with the Argentina international last summer, but they were unable to agree a deal with Villarreal.

As a result, Foyth remained with the Yellow Submarine, and he has gone on to make 18 appearances across all competitions this season, contributing one goal and two assists.

Barcelona were expected to renew their interest in the summer, but they have received a setback in their pursuit.

According to Sport, Villarreal are looking to receive Foyth's release clause in full, which is believed to be around €60m (£53.1m).

Due to Barcelona's current financial situation, they are not expected to spend large sums of money in the upcoming transfer window, and as result, they are unable to meet Villarreal's demands.

Barcelona manager Xavi pictured in September 2022 © Reuters

With the Yellow Submarine unwilling to negotiate a transfer fee, Barcelona are now set to turn their attention to alternative options.

There is a belief that Joao Cancelo could be available after falling out of favour at Manchester City.

The Portugal international joined Bayern Munich on loan in January, but he is expected to return to the Etihad Stadium in the summer.

In a separate report, Mundo Deportivo reveals that Barcelona have drawn up a three-man shortlist, which includes Manchester United's Diogo Dalot.

Bayern's Benjamin Pavard and Borussia Dortmund's Thomas Meunier are also believed to be on Barcelona's radar.