Gerrard seeks Carlos replacement as Premier League defender linked with Villa move

Steven Gerrard isn't worried about Aston Villa's slow start to the season, but admits the club are looking to sign a new centre-back.

The Villans host West Ham in the Premier League on Sunday to avoid a third defeat in their first four matches.

They lost at Bournemouth and Crystal Palace, but picked up a win against Everton between those encounters.

"We have a lot of talent and ability in the squad, but that doesn't guarantee you consistency. There are a lot of things that need to fall into place," Gerrard said.

"When you take over a club of the size and challenge of Aston Villa, there are many things you need to work on and improve on: the team, the squad, the club culture and the team mentality. players and staff around the building. It takes time and it's a process.

"I think we'll get there eventually. I didn't expect a quick fix or an overnight fix. We're definitely working every minute we can to improve the team and get to those consistent levels. ."

Diego Carlos is out after successful surgery on his ruptured Achilles and Gerrard has admitted Aston Villa may need to sign a replacement before next week's transfer deadline.

He said: "Defensively, we've had a huge setback the last few weeks. We went out there and made an addition that we thought would help us tremendously and strengthen that area of ​​our team.

"It has been removed, so we continue to work and analyze if someone can come and help us. Until that happens, we are working with what we have to try to improve every day.

"Hopefully by doing this, dedicating the minutes and coaching on the training ground, any mistakes or goals we concede will dry up."

According to talkSPORT, Villa are interested in signing Southampton centre-half Jan Bednarek.

The Polish international played over 150 times for Saints and established himself as a mainstay in his side's starting XI under Ralph Hasenhuttl.

Villa's opponents this weekend, West Ham, are also said to be keen on signing the 26-year-old.

However, the Villans are in 'advanced negotiations' to sign the player, with Southampton valuing him at £15million.

The Hammers are 'unlikely' to hijack Villa's deal to sign Bednarek after investigating to sign him.