Aston Villa face a fresh decision over Ezri Konsa after Arsenal reportedly made the defender their first-choice defensive target.
Sami Mokbel reports that Arsenal have placed Konsa at the top of their centre-back shortlist. The Gunners want another versatile defender and see the England international as someone capable of playing centrally or at right-back.
Ezri Konsa Arsenal transfer linked to unsigned contract
Jacob Tanswell said on The 1874 Podcast that Villa have placed a new contract on the table, but Konsa has not yet signed it. His existing agreement runs until 2028, so the club are not under immediate pressure to sell.
The contract situation still requires attention. Konsa is 28 and has established himself as one of Unai Emery’s most dependable players. His performances for England at the World Cup have also strengthened his reputation.
ReadAstonVilla reported this week that Villa viewed Arsenal’s initial approach for Konsa as “quite insulting”. Ben Jacobs said the clubs remained far apart on valuation, with Villa previously expected to demand around £60million.
Arsenal have yet to make an offer which changes Villa’s position. However, naming Konsa as their leading defensive target suggests their interest is more serious than an exploratory enquiry.
William Saliba’s back injury has increased Arsenal’s need for another defender before the new campaign.
Villa have already sold Morgan Rogers to Chelsea for £117million this summer. Losing another core player would force Emery to rebuild two important areas of his starting side before the season.
The Ezri Konsa Arsenal transfer will now depend on whether the defender signs Villa’s offer and whether Arsenal return with a proposal closer to the club’s valuation. Villa retain control, but an unsigned contract adds another consideration.
