Aston Villa face roadblock to transfer bid as ex-Leeds United man wanted in England return

Former Leeds United man Diego Llorente could be in line for a move back to the Premier League as Aston Villa eye up a deal for the current Real Betis defender, but they face some obstacles in order to secure his services.

According to Football Insider, Unai Emery is on the look out for a replacement in January should Diego Carlos leave Villa Park. However, the midlands side could find it difficult to agree a transfer with the Spanish club.

Llorente only left Leeds in the summer to join Real Betis for an undisclosed fee, signing a long-term contract that runs until 2028. It is believed that Aston Villa will struggle to strike an agreement as the Seville-based side a reluctant to entertain talks.

READ MORE: Assessing Leeds United's next five Championship matches as Middlesbrough revenge mission looms

READ MORE: Managing Leeds United - New forward signs, Wilfried Gnonto transfer decision and contract talks

The 31-year-old joined the Whites on a four-year deal back in September 2020 from La Liga side Real Sociedad - £18 million was enough to secure his services. He made sporadic appearances for the side over the next three-years, as injuries hampered his first season at Elland Road, taking to the pitch 59 times.

Midway through Leeds' relegation campaign in 2022/23, Llorente moved out on loan to Roma and took part in their run to the Europa League final. He re-joined the club, yet again, on a temporary basis the following season.

So far this term, the ex-Real Madrid defender made 17 appearances and has played a big part at the centre of Real Betis' defence. Llorente has also won ten caps for the national side, with the last coming back in 2022 against Switzerland.