Aston Villa have reportedly made an enquiry regarding the availability of Tottenham defender Japhet Tanganga.

The Lowdown: Search for a defender

Villa are looking to bring in a new defender ‘this week’ following a serious injury to summer signing Diego Carlos earlier this month.

The Brazilian is set to be out for the foreseeable future after rupturing his Achilles against Everton. Carlos has had surgery on the problem, which has resulted in Villa being linked with a number of centre-backs, including Tanganga.

The Latest: Tanganga approach

Birmingham Live relayed an update from Sportitalia, regarding Tanganga, who has been heavily linked with a move to AC Milan.

They claim that Villa chiefs have made an approach to Spurs for Tanganga but face competition from Milan and Nottingham Forest.

The Verdict: Unlikely?

Tanganga, who Alan Shearer labelled 'magnificent', seemingly does want to leave north London this summer but has had his eyes on a move to Milan.

Therefore, a move to the Midlands could be unlikely at this moment in time, but it makes sense for Villa to test the water with an approach due to their need for a defender.

The centre-back can also turn out as a right-back so would provide cover in numerous areas for Steven Gerrard, and could even still find a role in the team once Carlos returns, rotating both with the Brazilian and Matty Cash.

It looks as if the club want to push through a deal for a defender in the coming days, whether that be Tanganga or someone else, so this will certainly be one to watch in the next 72 hours or so.