𝐀𝐫𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐂𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐈𝐧 𝐎𝐧 𝐃𝐞𝐚𝐥 𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐄𝐳𝐫𝐢 𝐊𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐚

Arsenal are closing in on a deal to sign Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa as Mikel Arteta’s side moves to strengthen its defensive options ahead of the new Premier League season.

According to a report by The Athletic, discussions with Aston Villa have advanced, with talks at ownership level helping to narrow the gap over the defender’s valuation.

Konsa, 28, has reportedly been high on Arsenal’s list of defensive targets throughout the summer because of his ability to operate both at centre-back and right-back.

The move has gained urgency following injuries to William Saliba and Jurrien Timber, leaving Arsenal seeking additional cover in defence.

Konsa returned to Aston Villa for pre-season on Monday after being given an extended break following his involvement with England at the World Cup.

The defender was part of England’s squad that reached the semi-finals and featured in every match before coming on as a 72nd-minute substitute during the 2-1 defeat to Argentina.

Konsa still has two years remaining on his Aston Villa contract after signing a five-year deal with the club in September 2023.

He made 48 appearances in all competitions last season as Villa won the Europa League and finished fourth in the Premier League.

Since joining Aston Villa from Brentford in 2019, Konsa has made 286 appearances for the club and established himself as a regular under manager Unai Emery.

Arsenal have also previously held an interest in Bayer Leverkusen defender Jarell Quansah as the club considers options to reinforce its backline.

A potential move for Konsa would give Arsenal additional Premier League experience, defensive versatility and depth as the champions prepare for the new campaign.