Aston Villa transfer latest: Diego Carlos sends message to Villa fans after £26m transfer completed

Aston Villa have continued their early recruitment drive with the signing of Sevilla defender Diego Carlos for an undisclosed fee, thought to be around £26million.

The 29-year-old Brazilian has arrived at Villa Park on a four-year deal after completing a medical and agreeing personal terms with the Premier League outfit.

Steven Gerrard has moved quickly to strengthen his squad ahead of next season. The Villa chief has already brought in playmaker Philippe Coutinho and midfielder Boubacar Kamara.

Carlos enjoyed a successful past three years with Sevilla, lifting the Europa League in 2020. Prior to his spell in Spain, he represented Estoril in Portugal and Nantes in France.

He was also a gold-medal winner with Brazil at the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo.

Carlos told Villa’s official website: “I am really happy because the Premier League is one of the best competitions.

“I always want to do the best for the club and the shirt I’m wearing.

“Even now I can’t believe I’m here because it’s a dream to compete in the Premier League.

“I’m very happy, not only me, but my family and my kids.”

The first interview with Diego Carlos!

— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) June 1, 2022

“And now I have a very clear opportunity, I hope to give it 100 per cent my best, and to be able to play to the best of my ability.”

Carlos joins a Villa dressing room already containing some fellow Brazilians in Douglas Luiz and Philippe Coutinho.

And he added: “Yes, I know him, Douglas Luiz, from the Olympic Games. The two of us had the pleasure of winning the gold medal together.

“And, Philippe Coutinho – in fact, (on Thursday) I spoke to him on the phone, he congratulated me on being here and being with him.

“I’m really happy about this, the two players are