Aston Villa are in advanced talks to sell defender Diego Carlos, according to reports, as the club looks to reshape its squad ahead of the new season.
Talks Underway for Diego Carlos Transfer
The Brazilian centre-back, who joined Villa from Sevilla in 2022 for a reported £26 million, has been identified as a potential departure as manager Unai Emery continues to overhaul his defensive options. According to BirminghamWorld, the club is in discussions with interested parties over a permanent transfer for the 31-year-old.
Carlos has made 42 appearances for Villa across all competitions since his arrival, but his playing time has been limited this season due to injuries and the emergence of other defensive options. The defender has started only 10 Premier League matches in the current campaign, with Emery often preferring Pau Torres and Ezri Konsa in central defence.
Impact on Villa's Defensive Plans
The potential sale of Carlos would free up wages and potentially generate a transfer fee that could be reinvested into the squad. Villa are believed to be targeting a younger centre-back in the summer window, with the club also monitoring options at full-back and in midfield.
Emery has already confirmed that Villa will be active in the transfer market, with the club aiming to build on their impressive season that has seen them challenge for a top-four finish in the Premier League. The sale of Carlos would represent a significant shift in the club's defensive hierarchy, with the Brazilian having been a regular starter under previous manager Steven Gerrard.
Financial Considerations and Future Moves
Villa are expected to demand a fee in the region of £10-15 million for Carlos, who still has two years remaining on his contract at Villa Park. The club's financial position is strong following their improved league performance and increased commercial revenue, but they remain mindful of Financial Fair Play regulations.
The departure of Carlos would also open up a spot in Villa's squad for a new signing, with the club reportedly interested in several defensive targets across Europe. Emery has been linked with a move for a left-sided centre-back to provide competition for Pau Torres, while a right-back and a central midfielder are also on the club's shopping list.
According to BirminghamWorld, Villa are keen to complete any deal for Carlos before the start of pre-season training, allowing the new defensive recruit to integrate fully into Emery's system. The club's supporters will be watching closely as the transfer window progresses, with the potential sale of a high-profile player like Carlos signalling a clear intent to reshape the squad for the challenges ahead.
