Arsenal stand on the brink of securing Ezri Konsa’s signature, with the England international’s switch to the Emirates Stadium reportedly 99 per cent complete as report from Football Insider.
Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa very close on joining Arsenal this summer
Arsenal Close in on Konsa with £65m Villa Agreement Nearing
The 28-year-old defender has informed Aston Villa of his desire to leave, forcing the Midlands club to accelerate negotiations with the Premier League champions.
Sources indicate that the two sides are now in the final stages of discussions over a transfer fee, with an agreement expected to land in the region of £60-65 million.
Konsa has already agreed personal terms with Arsenal, and all parties involved express confidence that a full accord will materialise shortly.
The move represents a significant coup for Mikel Arteta, who has identified the former Brentford man as his primary defensive target this summer.
The Gunners find themselves in urgent need of defensive reinforcements following William Saliba’s serious injury.
The French centre-back, widely regarded as one of the world’s finest defenders, faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines after playing a pivotal role in Arsenal’s title-winning campaign.
Arteta requires immediate cover for Saliba, and Konsa fits the profile perfectly.
Much like his prospective new teammate, Konsa excels in possession and possesses impressive recovery pace, qualities that complement Gabriel’s more aggressive defensive style.
The England international’s performances at the recent World Cup only strengthened Arsenal’s conviction that he represents the ideal candidate to partner the Brazilian.
For Aston Villa, Konsa’s departure will inflict another painful blow on manager Unai Emery.
The Spanish coach has already watched Youri Tielemans, Morgan Rogers, and Lucas Digne exit this summer, leaving his squad significantly weakened.
However, Villa’s contract situation forced their hand, with Konsa entering the final two years of his deal and refusing to extend his stay.
Villa have moved swiftly to mitigate the damage, with reports suggesting they have reached an agreement in principle to sign Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
Arsenal, meanwhile, have also explored alternatives including Bayer Leverkusen’s Jarell Quansah, but their pursuit of Konsa remains far more advanced.
The Gunners currently rely on Cristhian Mosquera and teenage prospect Marli Salmon to provide depth, but Arteta clearly believes his squad needs greater experience and quality.
Konsa’s arrival would address that need immediately, providing defensive solidity and continuity during Saliba’s recovery period.
All signs now point towards a swift conclusion to this transfer saga, with Konsa seemingly destined to trade claret and blue for Arsenal’s red and white before the window slams shut.
