Aston Villa nears deal for Villarreal's Foyth amid defensive injuries

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery is pursuing a transfer for Villarreal defender Juan Foyth to strengthen his defensive lineup after recent injuries and player departures. The need for a new center-back has intensified following Diego Carlos' transfer to Fenerbahce and Tyrone Mings' knee injury during a recent match against West Ham. Emery expressed confidence in Foyth's abilities, having previously coached him at Villarreal, and noted that the club is evaluating various player profiles. Initial tests on Mings' injury suggest it may not be severe, but the situation remains under review. Villa's recent draw has impacted their hopes for a top-four finish in the Premier League, emphasizing the urgency of their upcoming Champions League match against Celtic. They currently sit ninth in the league, facing challenges in securing direct qualification for the Champions League's knockout stages.