Unai Emery planning to bring Juan Foyth on board?

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery is looking to strengthen his defensive options with a move for Villarreal defender Juan Foyth as the January transfer window nears its end. Emery’s decision comes after a series of defensive setbacks, with the departure of Diego Carlos to Fenerbahce and the ongoing injury concerns surrounding Pau Torres. The latest blow for Villa occurred in Sunday’s 1-1 draw against West Ham, when Tyrone Mings was forced to leave the pitch with a knee injury. This injury is particularly concerning for Mings, who had only recently returned from a lengthy 445-day absence due to an ACL injury. The club had hoped to see Mings return to full fitness, but this latest setback leaves Villa short of options at the back.

Emery is keen to add depth to his defensive line and sees Foyth as a potential solution. The 25-year-old Argentine has been impressive for Villarreal, showing strong defensive abilities, versatility, and a solid track record in La Liga. With Villa’s injury crisis at the back worsening, Emery is looking to act swiftly and hopes to secure a deal for Foyth before the transfer window closes. The addition of Foyth would provide Villa with valuable experience and a reliable option for the remainder of the season.

"Monchi (Villa's sporting director) and the club are looking at different players, the profile. Of course I know Juan Foyth because I worked with him. He is one player, with his quality, he can unite and play with the qualities and the performance we want to add in the squad," Emery said.

Tyrone Mings left the pitch in tears after suffering a left knee injury just after the half-hour mark during Villa's 1-1 draw with West Ham. However, the defender returned to the stadium for the second half in a more positive mood, smiling and giving the fans a thumbs-up. Initial tests suggested that the injury was not serious, offering some relief to both Mings and Villa. Despite this, the draw against West Ham was a blow to Villa’s top-four aspirations in the Premier League, with the club continuing to struggle following midweek European fixtures.

This latest setback marked the sixth time Villa have failed to win a league game after a midweek European encounter this season, highlighting a persistent "Champions League hangover." With little time to dwell on this disappointment, Emery's side faces a crucial Champions League clash against Celtic on Wednesday. A win in that game could secure Villa's automatic qualification for the last 16 of the competition.