Arsenal step up pursuit of Ezri Konsa as Aston Villa talks advance

Arsenal are pushing ahead with plans to sign Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa as Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen his defensive options.

The Gunners have been forced to explore the market after William Saliba suffered an injury expected to keep him out for an extended period, while Jurrien Timber is also dealing with a groin problem.

Arsenal had previously been linked with former Liverpool defender Jarell Quansah, but interest in the young centre-back appears to have cooled as the Premier League club intensifies its pursuit of Konsa.

According to journalist Ben Jacobs, Arsenal are now in advanced negotiations with Aston Villa over a potential deal for the England international.

Konsa has made 286 appearances for Villa across all competitions and played a key role in the club’s successful Europa League campaign last season.

Jacobs reported that Arsenal are increasingly confident of reaching an agreement with Villa after the two clubs previously found themselves some distance apart in their valuations.

“Arsenal confident on agreeing a fee to sign Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa.”

“Club-to-club talks now advanced. Big gulf in valuation earlier this summer as Villa asked for £60m+ and Arsenal bid £30m, but parties expected to reach an agreement.”

Konsa is reportedly Arsenal’s top defensive target, despite the club also considering alternatives including Jarell Quansah and Jacobo Ramón, as well as previously showing interest in John Stones before his move to Inter.

The 27-year-old still has two years remaining on his Villa contract, having signed a five-year extension in September 2023. That puts the Midlands club in a strong negotiating position as the summer transfer window approaches its conclusion.

Konsa’s performances have also made him an attractive option for Arsenal, with the defender recording more ground duels won than any other Premier League player last season.

With Arsenal preparing to face newly promoted Coventry City on Friday night, attention will now turn to whether the Gunners can accelerate negotiations and complete a deal for Konsa before the transfer window closes.

A successful move would give Arteta another experienced Premier League centre-back and provide additional depth during a potentially demanding campaign.