Real Betis have reportedly failed in an attempt to sign Valencia midfielder Javi Fuego on loan for the remainder of the season.

The basement side in La Liga are in the market for new players this month as they try to bolster their squad following a difficult season.

According to Estadio Deportivo, Betis made a formal approach for Fuego over the weekend, but the interest was rejected by Valencia boss Juan Antonio Pizzi, who wants to keep his first-team squad together.

Fuego joined Valencia from Rayo Vallecano in the summer, but has failed to command a regular first-team spot at the Mestalla thus far this season.