Aston Villa performed an extensive search for centre-half targets that included Galatasaray star Christian Luyindama before signing Calum Chambers in a free transfer from Arsenal.
That’s according to The Athletic, who report the Villans produced a detailed list of potential options for boss Steven Gerrard. The Birmingham natives were in the market for defensive reinforcements last month after allowing Axel Tuanzebe to cut short his loan to join Napoli.
The 24-year-old only featured in nine Premier League fixtures, starting six, at Villa Park. The Manchester United-owned defender also only played twice for just eight-minutes following Gerrard replacing Dean Smith in charge. But his exit left Villa with just three senior options.
Aston Villa explored multiple options who could replace Tuanzebe and offer Gerrard depth. Tyrone Mings and Ezri Konsa are the undisputed starters, with Kortney Hause for support.
The Villans considered a move to sign Marcelo from Lyon, but the Brazilian instead joined Bordeaux on loan. Galatasaray star Luyindama – currently on loan at Saudi Pro League side Al-Taawoun – also hit Gerrard’s desk, but Aston Villa ultimately elected against his transfer.
Aston Villa eyed Luyindama transfer before Chambers capture
Aston Villa chose to sign Chambers from Arsenal instead of Galatasaray’s Luyindama as the Villans felt he was the better fit. Gerrard preferred signing an option with prior experience of the Premier League, so ditched the Birmingham outfit’s interest in any foreign option.
The Gunners also agreed to let the 27-year-old move to Birmingham for free. He was set to become a free agent at the end of the season any way, with his contract expiring this June.
Luyindama is under contract at Galatasaray until 2024, but Al-Taawoun have an option to buy the 28-year-old, per AA. He moved to Galatasaray from Standard Liege in 2019 in an initial loan deal that featured a €5m (£4m) option to buy the DR Congo international.
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