Aston Villa are on the lookout for a new central defender this summer following John Terry’s exit.

Last Saturday saw Villa lose the Sky Bet Championship play-off final 1-0 to Fulham, with Steve Bruce’s side now facing a third consecutive year outside the top-flight.

Terry will not be part of their squad next season, with confirmation coming earlier in the week that the 37-year-old would be departing ahead of the 2018/19 campaign.

The ex-Chelsea and England captain made 33 appearances last season, with his departure leaving a huge hole in Bruce’s side.

According to the Birmingham Mail, Villa’s search to replace Terry is underway, with the summer transfer window now in full swing.

With Villa having to tighten their belts, once again, their options to replace Terry are limited, with the Birmingham Mail’s report even suggesting that Terry’s replacement could already be contracted to the club.

Tommy Elphick, who spent the second-half of last season on-loan with Reading, is one option for Villa.

Another is Micah Richards, who hasn’t featured for Villa in over a year. The 29-year-old defender is prepared to play for Villa and still has a year left on his current deal at Villa Park.

The Verdict   

Terry’s departure will hurt Villa, who need to act quickly to source a replacement.

Whether that comes from elsewhere, or Villa turn to a current member of their squad, remains to be seen.

It is surprising to hear that Richards could be considered, particularly after his lack of game time under Bruce so far.

Aston Villa fans… Let us know your thoughts!