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Leeds and Sunderland Battle for Forgotten £26m Aston Villa Star as Mourinho Greenlights Shock Exit
Leeds United and Sunderland have launched loan bids for Diego Carlos, the powerful Brazilian defender Aston Villa signed for £26 million in 2022. Carlos’ once-promising Premier League journey was derailed after a devastating Achilles injury shortly into his Villa Park stint, restricting him to just 40 appearances under Unai Emery.
Now at Fenerbahce under Jose Mourinho, the 31-year-old is reportedly available for a loan move, with Turkish outlet *Takvim* revealing Leeds, Sunderland, and Burnley have all made offers. Mourinho is believed to be open to letting Carlos leave, though Fenerbahce’s final stance on a loan remains uncertain.
For Leeds, the interest in Carlos may have originated before their recent £30 million double swoop for Jaka Bijol and Sebastiaan Bornauw, suggesting centre-back cover is no longer a pressing need.
Elsewhere at Elland Road, sporting director Adam Underwood continues reshaping the squad. After sealing midfield reinforcement with Sean Longstaff (£15m) and soon-to-arrive Anton Stach from Hoffenheim, Leeds now turn their attention to a goalkeeper, a left winger, and a new starting striker.
Bamford has been told to find a new club, Mateo Joseph is on the market, and Manor Solomon’s exit has left a hole on the wing. Leeds are eyeing a trio of Brazilians to plug the gaps: goalkeeper Lucas Perri, winger Igor Paixao, and striker Rodrigo Muniz. But a second Brazilian centre-back in Carlos may no longer be on the cards—despite Premier League interest reigniting his name.
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