Aston Villa 'sacrificing' Steven Gerrard signing as sights set on Man Utd target

Diego Carlos is set to be on the chopping block this summer as the Brazilian, who joined two years ago under Steven Gerrard’s stewardship, is considered to be a sacrifice to raise cash.

Villa are walking a tightrope with the Premier League’s strict profit and sustainability rules, meaning sales must first be made in order to acquire new, expensive signings. Fresh, top quality faces will be needed to compete in next year’s Champions League but that’s not currently realistic.

The Telegraph reports Villa are willing to listen to offers for Carlos, who has had a stop-start time in B6 so far, not helped by injuries. It’s unlikely the full £26 million paid will be recouped but it’s hoped any potential suitor will pay around half of that figure.

Not only would Villa be regaining some transfer funds, but ridding Carlos’ £100,000-a-week wages would balance the books somewhat. Serie A giants AC Milan are said to be keeping a close eye on the situation as they look to add experience and depth to their defence.

It would make sense for Carlos to depart as the former Sevilla man hasn’t been one of Emery’s preferred options, even when fully fit. Ezri Konsa and Pau Torres have been well ahead in the pecking order, whereas Carlos has made several defensive errors when called upon.

Villa plotting swoop for Man Utd target

The sale of Carlos could also help fund a move for Barcelona star and Manchester United target Ronald Araujo. Spanish publication Sport reports Emery and Villa’s president of football operations, Monchi, recently visited their home nation for a meeting with Barcelona chiefs, with Araujo a priority topic of conversation.

It’s claimed the relaxed, informal talk prompted hope of securing Araujo, above other unmentioned names. This is due to Emery and Monchi leaving Spain with the feeling Araujo could be on the market, just not cheaply. Carlos being sold would help but signing Araujo would take up the majority - if not all - of the funds gained from qualifying for the Champions League.