Aston Villa have rejected an opening offer from Fulham for defender Diego Carlos.
The Athletic reported in this week’s DealSheet that Villa were willing to listen to offers for Carlos given he is among their higher earners.
Fulham are in the market to strengthen their centre-back options this summer following the departure of Tosin Adarabioyo to Chelsea.
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Tim Ream also left for Charlotte FC, while Fulham confirmed the €6.3million signing of Villarreal central defender Jorge Cuenca on Sunday.
Their initial approach for Carlos was turned down but talks continue, while the 31-year-old also has admirers in the Saudi Pro League.
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Carlos joined Villa from Sevilla for £26m in the summer of 2022 and has a contract that runs until 2026.
However, a ruptured Achilles tendon in only his second game for the club meant Carlos had to wait until last season to enjoy regular game time.
The Brazilian made 38 appearances in all competitions last season after Tyrone Mings suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. Head coach Unai Emery has said Mings is expected to return to action after September.
Villa also have Ezri Konsa and Pau Torres available as options, while Clement Lenglet has returned to Barcelona following a loan spell.
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