Emery steps up centre-back search as Aston Villa target 26-year-old Frenchman

Aston Villa have turned their attention to West Ham United defender Jean-Clair Todibo as Unai Emery looks to add another centre-back before the transfer window closes.

The 26-year-old France international has emerged as a realistic option following major changes in Villa’s defence this summer.

With Ezri Konsa moving to Arsenal, strengthening the back line has become one of the club’s biggest priorities, and Todibo offers the benefit of Premier League experience alongside his qualities in possession.

Aston Villa make Jean-Clair Todibo enquiry

According to the Daily Mail, Aston Villa have asked about Todibo’s availability as they explore several options at centre-back.

Villa’s interest comes after alternative defensive deals ran into difficulty. Sky Sports reported that Villa have enquired about Todibo after losing Konsa to Arsenal.

The West Midlands club had also been working on other targets, including Club Brugge defender Joel Ordonez and Southampton’s Taylor Harwood-Bellis.

Concerns over Ordonez’s injury recovery complicated that move, while Southampton’s valuation of Harwood-Bellis has also proved difficult to meet.

Todibo could therefore become an increasingly attractive alternative during the final days of the window.

Todibo looks like a late window option for Villa

Todibo would make plenty of sense for Aston Villa.

He is comfortable bringing the ball out from defence, has the pace to defend higher up the pitch and already understands the physical demands of English football.

Those qualities should suit Emery, who prefers defenders capable of contributing to Villa’s build-up rather than simply clearing danger.

There is also an opportunity created by West Ham’s situation.

Following their relegation, several senior players have attracted interest, and Todibo could be available if Villa submit a serious proposal. The key will be price.

Villa should avoid overpaying simply because other targets have fallen through, but Todibo is experienced enough to make an immediate contribution and still young enough to offer several strong seasons.