Arsenal agrees deal for Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa

Arsenal have agreed a deal worth more than £50 million to sign Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa, the club announced Tuesday. The England international is set to undergo a medical before completing his move to Emirates Stadium.

Konsa, 28, joined Aston Villa in July 2019 and has made 286 appearances over the past seven seasons. Last season, he featured 48 times across all competitions, scoring two goals and providing one assist as Unai Emery's side lifted the Europa League.

The transfer followed renewed negotiations between Arsenal and Villa after initial talks fell short of an agreement. Arsenal had briefly explored alternatives, including Bayer Leverkusen's Jarell Quansah, but refocused efforts on Konsa to reach the current deal.

Konsa was a regular starter for England at the recent World Cup. His versatility has been a key factor in Arsenal's interest, as he is capable of playing both in the center of defense and at right-back.

The signing addresses defensive concerns at Arsenal ahead of the 2026-27 season. William Saliba and Jurrien Timber are currently sidelined with injuries, creating an immediate need to strengthen the backline before the campaign begins.

Konsa returned to Aston Villa training on Monday following an extended rest period after the World Cup. The deal was finalized after discussions between the clubs narrowed the gap between Villa's valuation and Arsenal's offer.