The Athletic's Gregg Evans has dropped a transfer claim involving Aston Villa which should delight Dean Smith.

What's the story?

Having already sealed deals for Emi Buendia and Ashley Young, Villa have made a productive start to the summer transfer window.

However, one area of concern is at the back, where Smith has relatively few options at his disposal in the middle of defence, and Evans has given his take on what to expect over these next few weeks.

Writing on his Twitter account and also in The Athletic, the journalist said: "Had a closer look at #AVFC plans in attack. This includes why No.10 is still a priority position; why a striker is not on the radar (yet); Villa's attempt to keep Grealish. (For those asking, I'm sure another CB will also be considered soon)."

Dean Smith will be happy

While Tyrone Mings and Ezri Konsa formed a superb centre-back duo in the Premier League last season - Villa conceded just 46 goals, the seventh-lowest tally in the division - the lack of strength in depth behind them was very worrying.

Kortney Hause was the man to whom Smith usually turned in times of need, but with Bjorn Engels now having sealed a move back to his native Belgium, the Midlands club are desperate for reinforcements at centre-back.

Injuries to either or both of Mings or Konsa next season would be a nightmare for Smith and the club's fans and could completely ruin their hopes of a European finish.

It's exactly why Evans' claim that he's sure another centre-back will "also be considered soon" is a major relief, and one which will surely delight Smith and Villa fans ahead of the new Premier League campaign.

Meanwhile, Villa are closing in on this big-money signing...