Arsenal Set to Test Aston Villa with £65m Ezri Konsa Offer

Premier League champions Arsenal are preparing to test Aston Villa's resolve with an audacious move for England international Ezri Konsa after William Saliba's injury forced Mikel Arteta into an urgent hunt for defensive reinforcements, SportsBoom can exclusively reveal.

The Gunners have been rocked after confirming Saliba is expected to miss an "extended period" after suffering a back injury during France's World Cup semi-final defeat to Spain.

The setback has left Arsenal facing an anxious wait over one of the world's best defenders. It is understood to have accelerated the club's search for another top-class centre back before the transfer window closes.

Konsa has now emerged as one of Arsenal's leading targets, with the champions ready to explore whether Villa could be tempted into doing business for one of their prized assets.

Villa have made it clear they have no desire to lose the 28-year-old, who is under contract until June 2028 and has become one of Unai Emery's most trusted lieutenants since arriving from Brentford in a £12 million deal in 2019. 

But it is understood an offer in the region of £65 million could seriously test Villa's resolve as Arsenal step up their search for defensive reinforcements.

INFLUENCE

Konsa has become a huge player for Villa, helping the club lift the UEFA Europa League last season while also playing a key role in their impressive fourth-place Premier League finish. 

He has also just returned from the World Cup in the United States, having starred for England in their run to the semi-finals and ultimate bronze medal.

However, the opportunity to join the reigning Premier League champions and compete for the biggest honours regularly could prove too good for the England international to turn down.

The former Charlton Athletic youngster has developed into one of the Premier League's most consistent defenders during his time at Villa Park, making more than 200 appearances for the Midlands club while cementing his place in the England squad.

His ability to operate at both centre-back and right-back has only increased his value, with Arsenal viewing his versatility as a major asset as they prepare for another demanding campaign on four fronts.

Saliba's absence leaves a huge hole in Arteta's back line. The Frenchman has been one of the driving forces behind Arsenal's recent success, forming a formidable partnership at the heart of the defence and playing a crucial role in last season's Premier League title triumph.

Villa would need a replacement if Konsa leaves, with Chelsea’s Axel Disasi previously on their radar. The French defender knows Villa Park well after a loan spell with the club and spent last season at West Ham.

PROVEN PERFORMER

Rather than gamble on inexperienced cover, Arsenal are determined to bring in a proven performer capable of stepping straight into the starting line-up if required.

Konsa fits the bill perfectly. Calm under pressure, dominant in the air and comfortable in possession, the England international has earned a reputation as one of the division's most dependable defenders.

Villa remain desperate to keep hold of one of their star men, but Arsenal's injury crisis has changed the landscape.

With Saliba facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines, the champions are ready to make their move and hope a £65 million offer will be enough to prise one of English football's finest defenders away from Villa Park.