Arsenal are reportedly increasing their interest in signing Ezri Konsa, the 28-year-old Aston Villa and England defender, and could be preparing to launch a bid for the player.
Konsa has impressed at Villa Park and has also performed well with the England national team at the ongoing World Cup 2026. He has two years remaining on his contract with Aston Villa, but his future could now be in doubt as Arsenal consider a move.
The Gunners are looking to add depth to their defense following William Saliba's injury, which forced him off in France's World Cup semi-final defeat to Spain. Mikel Arteta will likely be keen to find a suitable replacement for Saliba, who is one of Arsenal's most important players.
Ezri Konsa could provide a useful backup option for Arsenal, even if he is unlikely to start regularly at the Emirates Stadium. Once Saliba returns to full fitness, he and Gabriel Magalhaes will likely continue as the first-choice central defensive partnership for the foreseeable future.
The depth Konsa would provide is useful, but it's unclear whether he would be able to keep either Saliba or Magalhaes out of the starting lineup. Nonetheless, the 28-year-old has impressed in his current role and could be a valuable addition to the Arsenal squad.
Aston Villa will likely hope to keep hold of Konsa, who has been a key player for Unai Emery's side. However, the club has often had to sell players in order to comply with Premier League salary laws.
