Aston Villa are becoming increasingly resigned to Ezri Konsa’s departure as Arsenal circle | OneFootball

Arsenal have received a likely boost as Aston Villa are becoming increasingly resigned to Ezri Konsa’s departure as the Gunners plot a summer move, according to the Daily Mail.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta wants a replacement for William Saliba at the Emirates Stadium club after the Frenchman’s injury.

The North London club have submitted a bid for Konsa as they look to seal a deal for him.

However, the Gunners’ original offer was a little more than half of Villa’s £60 million valuation, which did not go down well with the Midlands club’s owner Nassef Sawiris.

Arsenal have not given up hope of signing the England international, who is their principal target, but they will have to improve on their initial offer.

Villa are preparing to impress in the Champions League next season, but their players fear losing Konsa and are convinced he will move on this summer.

The 28-year-old played eight games for the Three Lions at the World Cup, proving his quality on the biggest stage.

Arsenal could do with such a defender given his assuring performances in the Premier League over the years.

Villa manager Unai Emery will be desperate to hold on to Konsa, and his club want him to sign a contract extension as he has two years remaining on his current deal.

A move to Arsenal is more appealing to top players than ever given how Arteta has transformed his squad into credible challengers for the Champions League.