Aston Villa ‘to target’ Tosin Adarabioyo as Ezri Konsa edges towards Arsenal | OneFootball

Sky Sports reports that Aston Villa are targeting Chelsea centre-back Tosin Adarabioyo as Unai Emery reshapes his defence, with Ezri Konsa closing on Arsenal.

Emery faces a rebuild after high-profile departures at Villa Park. Konsa is reported to have agreed a four-year deal with an option of 12 months at the Emirates.

Adarabioyo joined Chelsea on a free from Fulham in 2024, yet has not nailed down a regular place amid managerial changes. His squad number has switched to 38, with number 4 taken by Valentin Barco, as Xabi Alonso reshapes the squad.

He was omitted from Chelsea's final pre-season friendly against Real Sociedad. Marseille, Sevilla and a Benfica side led by his former Fulham boss Marco Silva have shown interest, though staying in the Premier League with Villa could appeal.

For Arsenal, landing Konsa would be a significant boost for Mikel Arteta after fitness concerns for William Saliba and Jurrien Timber. The versatile defender fits a profile Arteta has discussed, able to cover multiple roles across the back line.

Konsa's exit would end a long Villa career that includes 286 appearances. The prospect of joining the reigning Premier League champions appears hard to refuse.

Villa are also considering AC Milan's Fikayo Tomori as an alternative. He is said to favour Villa over other suitors, with early talks under way, and Milan's asking price could make him a cost-effective option if Adarabioyo negotiations stall. Villa's spending on Johan Manzambi, goalkeeper Zion Suzuki and Joao Gomes means finances will be pivotal.

Source: Goal.com

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”