Aston Villa are reportedly interested in Arsenal defender Rob Holding as a potential replacement for Diego Carlos after his ankle injury – and Calum Chambers is a big fan, having played alongside Holding during his time at Arsenal.
Carlos has been ruled out for as long as nine months after rupturing ligaments in his ankle. A real blow to Villa, who had just paid Spanish giants Sevilla big money to sign the Brazilian defender. Villa now want to sign a replacement.
Reports this week claim that Juventus man Daniele Rugani is a target. But the latest claim is that free agent Jason Denayer, and Arsenal’s Holding, have been added to their shortlist of options to replace the colossal Carlos.
Back in 2016, now-Villa defender Chambers – who will be tasked with covering Carlos in the meantime – raved about Holding. He gave his verdict in quotes published by Tribuna, saying Holding is “great to play alongside”.
“I thought he was brilliant,” Chambers said, after playing against an MLS All-Star Team in pre-season. “He’s a great player both defensively and on the ball. He’s got composure, he’s great to play alongside.”
Villa interested in Holding: Chambers a big fan
Holding would be a very astute signing by Villa. He is not first choice at Arsenal and the return of William Saliba from a loan at Marseille has pushed the ex-Bolton defender further down the pecking order at The Emirates.
He is proven in the Premier League, and easily good enough for a club like Villa. Bringing in Holding would also give Chambers a player to play alongside he recognises and understands. That is, if he starts above Ezri Konsa and Tyrone Mings.
Unlikely to cost a big transfer fee, Holding could even potentially be available on loan. Villa would be making a really smart purchase with the addition of Holding.
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