Aston Villa are reportedly open to considering transfer offers for defender Diego Carlos in the upcoming January transfer window. This development has emerged amid increasing interest in the 31-year-old centre-back, as highlighted by Football Insider. Mick Brown, a former scout at Villa Park with significant connections, has indicated that Carlos does not align with manager Unai Emery's long-term vision for the team.
This situation follows an earlier report from Football Insider on 14 January, which noted that Turkish club Fenerbahce had expressed interest in acquiring Carlos, although Fulham's pursuit appears to have diminished. Despite being a regular starter, featuring in 14 of his 17 matches this season, Carlos currently finds himself behind Ezri Konsa, Pau Torres, and Tyrone Mings in the club's defensive hierarchy.
Brown provided insight into Villa's stance, suggesting that the coaching staff view Carlos as an ill-fitting component within their tactical framework. He remarked that the club perceives him as a potential asset for sale, aiming to generate funds by offloading players who are not integral to their plans. With Carlos's contract extending until 2026, there is a growing sentiment that the club may seek to capitalise on his market value in the near future.
In a discussion with Football Insider in December, Brown revealed that Villa are actively pursuing a "top-class" centre-back. The potential sale of Carlos could not only create space within the squad but also provide the financial means to secure a new signing. Drawing on his extensive experience in player recruitment, particularly during his time at Manchester United, Brown emphasised that Villa would be prepared to acquire a replacement should Carlos depart.
"I'm told they'd be open to letting him go," Brown stated. "I'm not convinced he fits with the way Villa want to do things and their style of play. They've got Konsa and Mings, who's just come back from his injury, ahead of him in the pecking order, and Pau Torres as well."
He further elaborated on the club's defensive challenges, noting, "Emery wants that stability that we talk about at the back because then it lets his midfield and attacking players go and do what they do. So if they can move Carlos on, and I think they will if offers arrive, they'll try to bring somebody else in."
Brown concluded by highlighting the potential advantages of Carlos's transfer, stating, "It's one that makes sense because he could go and play more regular football elsewhere, Villa could make some money from the sale and also strengthen their squad."
In related news, Aston Villa are also contemplating offers for forward Jhon Duran, indicating a possible reshuffle within their squad as the January transfer window approaches. This proactive approach reflects the club's ambition to refine their roster and enhance their competitive edge in the league.