Aston Villa are still trying to sign Southampton defender Jan Bednarek, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The Lowdown: Bednarek linked with Villa

Villa are on the hunt for a new centre-back on deadline day following a serious injury to Diego Carlos last month.

Bednarek, who Ralph Hasenhuttl labelled a 'really good player', has been heavily linked with a Villa Park move in recent weeks.

Reports even suggested that an agreement was reached between Villa and the Saints for the defender following a loan-to-buy offer.

The Latest: Romano’s comments

Talking to GiveMeSport on Wednesday evening, Romano has said that Villa are ‘trying to complete’ a deal for Bednarek.

The Italian stated:

“I think Bednarek remains an option for Aston Villa. He could be an option in the next 24 hours and they are trying to complete this deal.”

West Ham have since firmly joined the race, though, with reports suggesting that it is they who are now close to an agreement for the Poland international.

The Verdict: Need to act

With the Hammers now looking like they could hijack a deal, NSWE and Johan Lange need to be on the ball today.

Failing to add a centre-back would leave Steven Gerrard with just three fit and available options, with Carlos set to be out for the foreseeable.

That would be a gamble by Villa chiefs, especially after a poor start to the season, so hopefully a new defender will arrive today.