Fulham ‘stepping up’ pursuit of Aston Villa ace in blow to West Ham

Fulham have reportedly progressed their interest in Aston Villa star Diego Carlos, stepping ahead of West Ham United in the battle to sign the defender.

The Cottagers, keen to bolster their back line following the departure of Tosin Adarabioyo to Chelsea at the start of the summer, have made Carlos a priority target. The 31-year-old played in pre-season just twice, against Spartak Trnava on July 20 and then when he was sent off for two silly yellow cards against RB Leipzig.

Villa are open to selling Carlos at the right price as Unai Emery much prefers Ezri Konsa, while Lamare Bogarde - younger and with much cheaper wages - has emerged as a serious option for the season ahead. The Villans could also dip their toes back into the market themselves to source a replacement.

The Telegraph reports Fulham’s pursuit of Carlos has “intensified”, with the Brazilian expected to leave Villa Park before the conclusion of the transfer window. West Ham, searching for a replacement for the outgoing Kurt Zouma, are also interested but yet to make a formal approach.

Carlos has played 41 matches for Villa in the past two years, accumulating 2,744 minutes across all competitions. A rotation option throughout much of last season, the centre-half showed his qualities and experience at times but wasn’t consistent enough to be a mainstay in the XI.

Having played 14 times in the UEFA Champions League for Sevilla, many would think Carlos would be of use for the upcoming campaign. Villa are keen to cash in while they can, though, especially with Tyrone Mings set to feel like a new signing upon his return from injury.