Football News: Barcelona suffer blow in Juan Foyth pursuit?

According to reports, Barcelona's efforts to sign defender Juan Foyth from Villarreal have been unsuccessful.

After a slender 1-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao on Sunday, the Catalan powerhouses increased their advantage at the top of the La Liga standings to nine points.

Barcelona is still looking to strengthen the right side of their defence even though they have now kept 19 clean sheets in 25 league games this season.

In addition to Jules Kounde, who joined from Sevilla last summer, other players like Sergi Roberto, Ronald Araujo, and Alejandro Balde have all played in the right-back position at various periods throughout the 2022-23 season.

However, Barcelona are adamant about finding a long-term fix, and Foyth is seen as one of their prospective targets.

The Argentine international was linked to Xavi's team last summer, but a contract with Villarreal could not be reached.

Foyth stayed with the Yellow Submarine as a result, and this season he has made 18 appearances in all competitions, recording one goal and two assists.

Barcelona had been anticipated to reaffirm their interest in the summer, but their pursuit has been hampered.

Sport reports that Villarreal wants to pay Foyth's release clause in full, which is estimated to be worth about €60 million (£53.1 million).

Barcelona's current financial predicament makes it unlikely that they would make significant purchases during the forthcoming transfer window, therefore they are unable to comply with Villarreal's requests.

Barcelona are now prepared to focus on alternate options as the Yellow Submarine is unwilling to negotiate a transfer deal.

There is speculation that Joao Cancelo, who lost favour at Manchester City, would be available.

The Portugal international left the Etihad Stadium in January to join Bayern Munich on loan, but he is anticipated to return there in the summer.

Separately, Mundo Deportivo reports that Barcelona have created a shortlist of three players that includes Diogo Dalot of Manchester United.

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

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