Arsenal readying bid for Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa | OneFootball

Arsenal are preparing an opening bid to test Aston Villa’s resolve for versatile England international defender Ezri Konsa.

The Gunners are moving quickly to strengthen their options at the back as manager Mikel Arteta finetunes his squad ahead of a demanding 2026/27 campaign.

Arsenal have suffered a major setback in defence following William Saliba’s recent injury.

The French international was forced off during France’s World Cup semi-final exit against Spain due to a persistent back problem. A lengthy spell on the sidelines is expected.

Konsa, who can play both centre-back and right-back, would be a key utility option who could maintain Arsenal’s defensive strength.

His stock is at an all-time high following his performances for England at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.

Villa manager Unai Emery regards Konsa as an irreplaceable cornerstone of his squad.

With two years remaining on the ‘excellent‘ defender’s contract, Villa are expected to demand a premium fee as they aim to navigate tight financial constraints.

Arsenal’s simultaneous interest in Morgan Rogers is complicating their pursuit of Konsa.

While negotiating for two key players from the same club within a single transfer window is challenging, the Gunners have the financial resources to pull off both moves.

With pre-season preparations underway and international commitments concluding, Arsenal are expected to submit their opening offer to Villa in the coming days.