Barcelona's embarrassing defeat by Levante has fueled fresh reports of the Spanish giants considering asking River Plate manager Marcelo Gallardo to take over.

The reigning champions are currently top of La Liga despite three league defeats and could take a giant stride towards qualifying for the last 16 in the Champions League by beating Slavia Prague on Tuesday night.

But an increasing number of fans have voiced their frustration at head coach Ernesto Valverde after a series of underwhelming displays this season.

Marcelo Gallardo is reportedly being lined up to replace Ernesto Valverde as Barcelona boss

Marca reported TV show 'El Chiringuito de Jugones' stated that Barcelona may go after Gallardo if they decide to replace Valverde.

The Nou Camp giants have won back-to-back league titles but fans have not been happy with the team's performances.

There is no suggestion that Valverde will be sacked yet, but it has been reported that Barcelona are lining up a replacement should they decide to wield the axe.

Gallardo is in charge of River Plate, who are attempting to defend the Copa Libertadores

Last month TNT Sports reported that Gallardo is top of their list, following a trophy-laden five-year spell in South America.

Barcelona hope that the lure of European football and one of the world's biggest clubs could entice Gallardo, who has guided the defending champions to the Copa Libertadores final against Flamengo on November 23.

Barcelona have previously hired a coach straight from Argentina in the past, when they brought Gerardo Martino over from Newell's Old Boys.

The 56-year-old lasted just one year after arriving in 2013, losing out on the La Liga title to Atletico Madrid on the final day of the season.

Ernesto Valverde has won back-to-back titles, but Barca have struggled at start of this season