Exclusive: Milan lead race to sign €25m Villarreal star in late summer move

Villarreal have had a very busy summer, but it’s not over yet as they could be about to lose a key player to Milan before Monday’s deadline.

Sources have exclusively revealed to Football España that Milan have lined up Juan Foyth as a strong alternative to Manchester City’s Manuel Akanji, who is currently their leading defensive target. Initial contacts have been made between Milan and Villarreal regarding the Argentine defender’s availability, with the Yellow Submarine having set a €25m price tag for the 26-year-old.

Foyth, who is capable of operating both as a centre-back and a right-back, is valued by Milan’s technical staff for his versatility, although they are currently only prepared to pay €17m. However, this stance could cost them, as Sevilla are also said to be monitoring the situation closely, and sources indicate that two other unnamed European clubs have reached out to the player’s representatives.

These developments could strengthen Villarreal’s negotiating position, which would potentially complicate Milan’s pursuit. It is far from certain that Akanji ends up at the San Siro, which is why Milan are keeping the Foyth option warm, though growing competition may force them to accelerate talks or reassess their transfer strategy.

Villarreal are understandably reluctant to lose Foyth

Foyth, who signed a contract extension earlier in the summer, has previously attracted attention from Aston Villa, so Villarreal have been in this situation before. However, it is also different, because there has been an overhaul in the defence during the transfer window – largely brought about by injuries.

Logan Costa and Willy Kambwala are both out long-term, which led to Villarreal bringing in Santiago Mourino and Renato Veiga. Marcelino Garcia Toral, the club’s head coach, needs stability during this moment, and that is what Foyth brings. He is set to be a regular starter in the centre of defence, so Milan will likely need to pay the full €25m to get their man.