Aston Villa transfer news: Diego Carlos deal confirmed as next step in Gerrard revolution revealed

Aston Villa have confirmed the signing of Sevilla centre-back Diego Carlos, who has become Steven Gerrard’s third signing this summer.

Villa have made a fast start to the summer transfer window as they look to bolster their ranks for next season. Philippe Coutinho firstly signed a long-term contract. He has shown promise following his loan spell from Barcelona.

On Monday, meanwhile, Gerrard further added to his midfield with former Marseille man Boubacar Kamara.

The focus subsequently shifted to adding to the defence and reports claimed of interest from Villa and Newcastle in Carlos.

Villa then revealed a deal for the Brazil international on Thursday evening.

A club statement added that the 29-year-old will soon travel to England to complete a medical and finalise his contract.

Sevilla also confirmed the transfer on Thursday evening. The La Liga club said: “Sevilla FC would like to thank the player for his work during all these years in Seville and wishes him the best of luck in his new journey.”

The Telegraph reporter John Percy has claimed that Villa’s third signing of the summer window cost £26million.

Percy added that Villa’s next big priority is on moving fringe players out of the club.

Carlos moved to Sevilla from French club Nantes in the summer of 2019. He racked up 136 outings for the club, including playing 34 of 38 La Liga games this season.

He was therefore a key feature in Sevilla’s successful push to qualify for next season’s Champions League.

But Carlos has already tasted success in Europe at the heart of the Sevilla team. He starred in the club’s run to Europa League glory in 2020, including notching an assist in the 3-2 win over Inter in the final.

Diego Carlos a big Villa signing

Newcastle boss Eddie Howe had serious interest in Carlos during the transfer window. However, the Magpies eventually had to settle for signing Dan Burn.

Villa‘s subsequent acquisition of Carlos is an exciting one. Among his impressive leadership at the back for Sevilla, he blocked more shots than any other player in La Liga this season.

Carlos also made an average of 3.5 key clearances per game in the Spanish top flight this term.

He will therefore bolster Gerrard’s side in more ways than one and it is an immediate sign that Villa mean business this summer.

With three signings already in the bag, the focus will now turn to outgoings in a bid to balance the books.