Aston Villa are looking to sign free agent Jason Denayer following a serious injury to Diego Carlos.

The Lowdown: Denayer profiled

The 27-year-old, who has been hailed as a “powerful” player by Lyon recruitment chief Florian Maurice, is currently without a club after leaving the Ligue 1 side earlier this summer.

A 35-cap Belgium international, Denayer - who is valued at £12.6m by Transfermarkt - is primarily a centre-back but can also line out at full-back or even in midfield.

The former Manchester City youngster has plied his trade in a number of different countries over the years, but it looks as if a return to England could be on the cards.

The Latest: Villa linked with Denayer

Spanish outlet Estadio Deportivo have claimed that Villa are looking to sign a new defender due to Carlos’ serious injury.

They suggested that the Premier League club are thinking of signing Denayer and also name-checked Arsenal’s Rob Holding as a potential target.

The Verdict: Smart move?

Bringing Denayer to Villa Park wouldn’t cost NSWE a penny when it comes to a transfer fee. The player is still just 27 years of age and could provide a solid defensive option in Steven Gerrard’s side for years to come.

He would be able to provide cover in a number of different areas and even in midfield, so a move could be similar to the one that the club struck for Calum Chambers earlier this year.

A swoop for Denayer appears to make sense both financially and in terms of what he would bring to the Midlands, and it looks as if it may well be one to keep a close eye upon.