Aston Villa reach surprise decision to loan out defender despite Diego Carlos replacement search

Aston Villa have surprisingly opted to let Kortney Hause leave on loan, amid their search for a new centre-half following Diego Carlos’ injury.

Steven Gerrard’s team spent £26million to capture Carlos from Sevilla earlier this summer. The Brazilian started both of Aston Villa’s first two Premier League matches before picking up an injury against Everton.

Gerrard soon expressed concern that Carlos could be out for a long period. And those fears have come true as the 29-year-old will require surgery after rupturing his Achilles tendon.

Before Aston Villa were beaten 3-1 by Crystal Palace on Saturday, Gerrard was asked about his club potentially bringing in a replacement.

The manager confirmed talks were already underway between Villa chiefs about a successor coming in. However, he didn’t think there was an ‘urgent need’ to make a signing due to his remaining options in central defence.

“It’s something we’re analysing now,” Gerrard told VillaTV. “We’re having talks behind the scenes in terms of what we do. I don’t think there’s an urgent need.

“We’ve still got three fully-fit centre-halves that are ready to go. Kortney Hause has also rejoined the group and is back in full training. We’ve got some fantastic young kids that are brewing in the background as well. So there’s no urgent need as in hours or days.

“We’ve got time now from now until the end of the window to decide whether we need to get some more support in that area.”

Kortney Hause leaves Villa on loan

At that point, Gerrard could rely on Tyrone Mings, Ezri Konsa, Calum Chambers and Hause. But the latter has gone to Watford on loan for the season. As such, there are now just three fit senior centre-backs in the Villa squad.

Hause has joined the Championship outfit on a season-long loan, with no option or obligation to buy for Watford. He will help the Hornets as they aim to get back to the Premier League at the first time of asking.

Hause may have been given some opportunities by Gerrard this season due to Carlos’ absence. But clearly the 27-year-old felt he could gain more by linking up with Watford.

The former England U21 international will wear the number 30 shirt at Watford. He will compete with the likes of Craig Cathcart, Christian Kabasele and Francisco Sierralta for a starting place at Vicarage Road.

One option for Villa to solve their defensive shortage is Jan Bednarek of Southampton, as a report claims they have made a loan offer for the Pole.