Arsenal are pushing ahead with their interest in Ezri Konsa and are ready to increase their offer for the Aston Villa defender after the England international made clear he wants to join the Gunners, according to TEAMtalk.
It was revealed in July that Arsenal were looking for a defender capable of covering both centrally and at right-back following William Saliba’s back injury, and Konsa has emerged as the ideal fit after the club assessed a number of options.
The 28-year-old has long been admired by Arsenal and his excellent World Cup campaign only strengthened the belief at the Emirates that he would be an outstanding addition to Mikel Arteta’s defensive ranks.
Arsenal have already seen a £40million offer rejected, with Aston Villa standing firm on a valuation of around £60million for Konsa.
However, TEAMtalk sources indicate Arsenal are now ready to return with an improved proposal that could exceed £50million including add-ons, with that level regarded as significant enough by both Arsenal and Konsa’s camp to potentially get the deal moving.
Crucially, Konsa has now made his position clear to Villa. Indeed, TEAMtalk understand the defender is keen to make the move to Arsenal and sees the opportunity to join the Premier League champions as an attractive next step.
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Arsenal had explored other possibilities. They looked at John Stones but were unwilling to offer the multi-year contract he subsequently received from Inter Milan.
It was reported that enquiries were made about Atletico Madrid defender Marc Pubill in recent weeks, but those approaches were turned down.
Konsa, however, has remained the preferred option and Arsenal are now prepared to step up their efforts.
Villa are aware of the player’s desire to move and are also working on their own defensive recruitment. They are close to finalising the signing of Atletico Madrid’s Matteo Ruggeri and have also made enquiries about West Ham’s Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
Villa continue to work under financial constraints and, with Konsa having only two years remaining on his current contract, it is understood the club could find it difficult to reject a major offer if Arsenal reach the required level.
