Josh Kroenke has had to step in and engage as Arsenal agree deal for Ezri Konsa | OneFootball

Arsenal co-chairman Josh Kroenke has reportedly had to step in and engage with Aston Villa as the Gunners secure a £51 million deal for Ezri Konsa.

Mikel Arteta wants the England international star at the Emirates Stadium following William Saliba’s injury.

Konsa also wants to join Arsenal and a deal for him to move to London is on the cards.

However, tension between the two clubs from the Ollie Watkins saga in 2025 had threatened to derail the transfer.

Kroenke had to get involved and dialogue at ownership level helped reduce the valuation gap for the defender. A deal has now been agreed, with a medical due for tomorrow.

Konsa was one of the best players for England at the World Cup, starting every match until the semi-final, when he appeared as a 72nd-minute substitute.

The 28-year-old said ‘goodbye’ to his Villa teammates today and could now be announced by Arsenal before the end of the week.

Konsa is set to be Arsenal’s fourth arrival of the summer following earlier deals for Illan Meslier, Christos Tzolis and Bruno Guimaraes.

Piero Hincapie has also made his season-long loan deal from Bayer Leverkusen permanent in a £34.5m deal.

The Gunners have now strengthened in every major department, but further signings could be on the cards.

Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli are both likely to leave the club before the end of the summer transfer window.

Arteta could look to sign another attacker if either or both Brazilians depart, and fans will be desperate for a big-name addition.