Diego Carlos leaving Aston Villa: Should Fulham make a new transfer offer? Whisper+ verdict

Latest developments

• Aston Villa are set to allow Diego Carlos to leave in January.
• The centre-back's playing time will be limited now Tyrone Mings has returned.
• Fulham expressed an interest in the summer, but made no official offer.

Whisper+ analysis

Authenticity (3.5/5): Rumour fits with situation at Villa Park

Aston Villa are expected to entertain offers for their centre-back Diego Carlos in January, whose first-team opportunities at Villa Park have reduced since the return of Tyrone Mings to full fitness.

That is being reported by footballinsider247.com, who do not name their source, but note that Villa were supposedly open to offers at the end of the summer window, too, and that Fulham were one of the interested parties.

Value (4/5): Brazilian can still do a job for reasonable price

At 31, Diego Carlos is still in his prime, as proven by some stellar performances in his 11 outings in all competitions so far this season for the high-flying Villans, making him a great option for Fulham.

Villa have not set an asking price for the Brazilian, but with 18 months left on his deal, they may accept something close to his €12 million valuation, which would be excellent news for the Cottagers.

Suitability (4/5): Solid Premier League defender

An out-and-out centre-back who has operated in Unai Emery's back four over 50 times and won the UEFA Europa League for Sevilla, Carlos would be a welcome addition to the Fulham team, which also plays four at the back.

Upgrade? (4/5): Healthy competition at the Cottage

Fulham already have four centre-backs on their books, all of whom are younger than Diego Carlos. Calvin Bassey has usually been partnered by either new signing Joachim Andersen or Issa Diop, while Jorge Cuenca has rarely got a look in.

With the Villa man's added experience, he would be aiming to nail down that spot alongside Bassey, but doing so would not be a piece of cake.

Logic (3.5/5): Carlos will want gametime

The Brazilian is at the age now where he will want to maximise his playing time at the top level.

He might be intent on fighting for his place at Villa Park, but if he is not part of Emery's plans, then a quick move to a club going well under Marco Silva and in the hunt for European football could be ideal.

Whisper+ verdict: 19/25

UEFA Champions League football going into the spring may be something worth sticking around for, even if you're on the bench for most of it, but this winter move looks a decent option for both Carlos and Fulham.

Our verdict is Fulham should hurry up and make a formal offer, otherwise they could quickly end up at the back of a long queue!