Aston Villa make Diego Carlos transfer decision ahead of January – sources

Aston Villa could consider selling Diego Carlos in January to cash in on him before his contract expires in 2026, sources have told Football Insider.

Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that Unai Emery could consider using him more as a centre-back for the rest of the season.

A move for Carlos is less likely in January rather than next summer because Villa are aware that it would be a difficult process to replace him and one that would likely be expensive.

However, the club could contemplate selling him in the summer as it would likely be their final chance to cash in on him rather than risk allowing Carlos to run down his contract.

Aston Villa have a different idea defensive partnership

Well-placed sources told Football Insider that Emery’s ideal partnership would be to have Pau Torres and Ezri Konsa together for each game.

Villa have also been boosted defensively by the return of Tyrone Mings, with the England international now an option once again.

Carlos has made 11 appearances for Villa this season across all competitions, but he has only started five times in the Premier League.

Villa have conceded 17 goals in the opening 11 Premier League fixtures with the club sitting ninth in the table.

Emery’s side will be back in action on Saturday (23 November) as they face Crystal Palace.