Arsenal are reportedly preparing an opening bid for Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa after William Saliba suffered a serious back injury at the World Cup.
Saliba was forced off during France’s semi-final defeat by Spain after playing through discomfort during the tournament. The centre-back now faces further examinations, with surgery possible and his availability for the start of Arsenal’s title defence in doubt.
The injury has increased Mikel Arteta’s interest in adding another defender before the transfer window closes.
According to the Daily Mail report carried by Metro, Arsenal are ready to open talks with Aston Villa over Konsa after previously holding tentative interest in the England international.
Arsenal face difficult £60m negotiation
Villa are expected to demand around £60million for Konsa, who has two years remaining on his contract and remains a key part of Unai Emery’s side.
The 28-year-old can play at centre-back or right-back, giving Arteta an experienced option capable of covering several roles. His Premier League record and performances for England at the World Cup have further strengthened Villa’s position.
Konsa is reportedly keeping an open mind over his future, although no agreement has been reached with Arsenal and Villa have not indicated they are prepared to sell.
Arsenal are also pursuing Morgan Rogers, which could make negotiations with Villa particularly difficult. Trying to sign two important players from the same club would require major financial commitments and a significant change in Emery’s stance.
As Read Arsenal’s latest transfer overview noted, Villa’s combined valuation of Konsa and Rogers could reach around £180million.
Saliba’s injury may force Arsenal to prioritise defensive cover earlier than planned. Konsa fits the required profile, but Villa’s valuation and reluctance to lose another senior player leave Andrea Berta with a demanding negotiation.
