Arsenal close in on Ezri Konsa deal as Aston Villa talks advance

Arsenal are edging closer to an agreement with Aston Villa for defender Ezri Konsa after making significant progress in negotiations, according to The Athletic.

The 28-year-old England international has been high on Mikel Arteta’s defensive shortlist throughout the summer, and talks between the two Premier League clubs have now advanced as they work towards finalising a deal.

The latest development follows discussions at ownership level, with Arsenal and Villa seeking to narrow the gap between the Gunners’ valuation and the price initially demanded for Konsa.

Arsenal’s interest in the centre-back has been well established, with the club viewing him as an experienced option capable of strengthening a defence hit by injuries. Previous reports had indicated that Villa were holding out for a fee of around £60 million, while Arsenal had been reluctant to meet that valuation.

Konsa has become an increasingly important figure at Villa since joining the club from Brentford in 2019. His consistency in the Premier League and experience at international level have made him an attractive target for Arteta as Arsenal look to reinforce their defensive options.

The Gunners initially faced resistance from Villa, but the latest talks suggest a compromise could now be within reach. Reports have indicated that Arsenal have already seen an earlier offer rejected, with the Midlands club previously maintaining a valuation in excess of £60 million.

With negotiations now progressing, Arsenal will hope to complete the deal soon and add Konsa to their defensive ranks before the transfer window closes.

For Villa, losing one of their established defenders would represent a significant change, but movement on the valuation could pave the way for the England international to make the switch to north London.

Konsa’s potential arrival would give Arteta another experienced option at centre-back and provide additional cover as Arsenal prepare for another demanding Premier League and European campaign.