Aston Villa are reportedly interested in Lutsharel Geertruida, Joe Gomez and Trevoh Chalobah as we weigh up a potential replacement if Diego Carlos leaves.
Speculation in recent days has linked Carlos with a departure this summer, as it follows on from his absence in our last two pre-season friendlies after receiving a red card against RB Leipzig.
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At 31 years of age, with high wages and a limited role as chief back-up option behind Ezri Konsa as well as his injury issues since joining us, the Brazilian centre-half doesn’t seem to fit the mould of the squad we’re building under Unai Emery, and so a possible change is understandable and arguably the smart strategy despite his importance over the past year.
According to the Telegraph’s Matt Law, Villa have added Geertruida, Gomez and Chalobah to our transfer shortlist in the event that Carlos has to be replaced, although we may well face competition for Chalobah’s signature if he emerges as our priority target, with Crystal Palace said to also be interested in the Chelsea defender.
It could be argued that Villa need to bolster our defensive options regardless of whether or not Carlos leaves, as with Tyrone Mings still working his way back from a long-term injury layoff, we look light in that department as we prepare for another gruelling season.
Talented youngster Lamare Bogarde may now stay with the senior Villa squad and add important depth as he continues to show promise, but there is a sense that we must add quality and experience to compete with Pau Torres and Ezri Konsa, especially if we green light an exit for Carlos too.
The three names touted above are all of the Emery mould in that they’ll be capable of adding defensive solidity, athleticism and composure in possession to help us build out from the back, but after Geertruida emerged as the initial transfer target, it’s hoped that the Dutchman is the one to solve our issue given his versatility to play at right-back or as a defensive midfielder too if needed, as well as ticking a number of key boxes in terms of what we need.
Time will tell firstly if Carlos leaves, and in turn which direction Villa opt to go in, but there could be a crucial change to our backline before the summer transfer window is over, and hopefully it turns out to be a reshuffle that strengthens the defence and makes us more competitive for the campaign ahead.
