Arsenal line up double deadline deal for Konsa and Alvarez

Gunners Push for £50m Konsa as Arteta Eyes Alvarez Swoop

According to The Athletic, the Gunners have already secured Christos Tzolis and Bruno Guimaraes this summer, but the club’s recruitment drive continues as they seek to strengthen key areas of the squad.

Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa remains Arsenal’s primary defensive target. The 28-year-old Englishman fits the club’s requirement for a versatile defender capable of operating at both centre-back and right-back.

However, negotiations have stalled over Villa’s £60 million valuation, with Arsenal currently unwilling to exceed £40 million.

The need for defensive cover has become urgent following William Saliba’s extended injury absence, with the Frenchman sidelined due to a back problem sustained during World Cup duty.

With Jurrien Timber also struggling with a groin issue and 16-year-old Marli Salmon considered too inexperienced for Premier League action, Arteta requires an immediate solution.

Konsa impressed last season with a 95% passing accuracy in the top flight while winning nearly 70% of his duels.

To secure his signature, Arsenal may need to increase their offer to around £50 million plus £5 million in add-ons.

On the attacking front, Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez emerges as a genuine possibility.

The Argentine striker has been pushing for a move, though Barcelona appear unlikely to secure his signature amid a dispute with Atletico over alleged tapping-up.

With PSG having completed other attacking signings, Arsenal could become Alvarez’s most probable destination.

Arteta has already held two personal conversations with the player, and a deal could materialise before deadline day.

However, any move would require a significant investment, with Real Madrid’s recent £129 million bid rejected due to cross-city rivalry.