Arsenal are interested in Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa | OneFootball

Arsenal have expressed interest in Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa as manager Mikel Arteta seeks to strengthen his backline.

The Gunners’ interest in the 28-year-old centre-back comes at a pivotal time, as they also weigh up their pursuit of Morgan Rogers.

Arsenal’s recruitment team have been thoroughly assessing several defensive options, with Konsa’s versatility making him an appealing candidate at the Emirates Stadium.

Since joining Villa Park from Brentford in 2019, Konsa has become one of the most reliable and consistent defenders in the Premier League.

A key pillar under Unai Emery, his recovery pace, physicality, and leadership have been vital to Villa over the years.

Arteta values defenders who are fluid and multi-functional, a profile Konsa has mastered for both club and country.

While Arsenal boast an elite defensive contingent—including William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhaes, Jurrien Timber, and Riccardo Calafiori—the relentless demands of domestic and Champions League football require strong contingency plans.

Securing Konsa, however, will be no easy task. Aston Villa have no desire to lose their defensive anchor, who is under contract until 2028. Reports indicate it would take an offer in the region of £60 million to even bring Villa to the negotiating table.

Arsenal’s pursuit of Konsa could have ramifications for their efforts to sign Rogers, as Villa may need to make a major sale to retain their prized midfielder.

Konsa and Rogers are currently on international duty at the World Cup, where both will be hoping to help England overcome Mexico in a highly anticipated round-of-16 clash.