AC Milan in talks to sign experienced Aston Villa defender

AC Milan is on a mission to strengthen its defensive line by targeting Aston Villa's star defender, Diego Carlos. The Brazilian, renowned for his robust defensive skills, has emerged as a top candidate for the Rossoneri as they look to enhance their squad for the upcoming season.

Diego Carlos, who joined Aston Villa from Sevilla in 2022 for a substantial fee of £26 million, has not been the first-choice centre-back in the Villa lineup, often playing second fiddle to teammates like Ezri Konsa and Pau Torres.

This season, he has featured in 34 matches across all competitions, finding the back of the net once and providing one assist. In the Premier League, he has made 24 appearances.

Despite his contributions, the current situation has sparked rumours about his future at the club, with Milan showing a keen interest in luring him to Serie A. The Italian giants view Carlos as a potential key player who could significantly improve their defensive solidity, which has shown some cracks in the recent campaign.

Milan's technical directors have been impressed by Carlos' aerial dominance and physical presence on the pitch, qualities they believe would add a new dimension to their backline.

According to Calciomercato, initial talks have reportedly taken place with Carlos' representatives, although formal negotiations with Aston Villa are expected to be challenging.

The Villans are keen on recouping the £26 million they invested in Carlos, adding a financial hurdle to the ongoing discussions.

The pursuit of Carlos comes at a time when Milan might face departures in their defensive ranks, with players like Simon Kjaer and Malick Thiaw possibly heading for the exit door.

This makes the acquisition of an experienced defender even more crucial for Milan's strategy. Carlos, with his leadership qualities and proven track record, fits the bill perfectly.

Financial considerations will play a pivotal role in the negotiations. Aston Villa's demand for a significant transfer fee could pose a challenge, especially under the stringent financial regulations that clubs like AC Milan must adhere to.

The management at Milan is bracing itself for tough negotiations, understanding that any deal must comply with Financial Fair Play and Profit and Sustainability Rules.

Throughout his career, Diego Carlos has showcased his quality on the international stage, having been part of the Sevilla team that clinched the Europa League trophy in 2020 and representing Brazil in their gold medal triumph at the Tokyo Olympics. His experience in top-tier European competitions makes him an attractive prospect for clubs looking to bolster their defence.

Securing a player of Diego Carlos' calibre would not only enhance Milan's defensive options but also send a strong message about their ambitions for the coming seasons. The next few weeks will be pivotal in determining whether this transfer saga will result in a successful acquisition for the Italian powerhouse.