Ezri Konsa emerges as Arsenal and Liverpool target amid Saliba injury concerns
Aston Villa centre-back Ezri Konsa is on the radar of both Arsenal and Liverpool this summer, with the England international reportedly open to a move to the Emirates Stadium.
Arsenal have been weighing a significant investment in central defence, and Konsa ranks among their leading options. Villa’s £60 million valuation is viewed as steep by the Gunners, yet they have not abandoned interest.
Liverpool have also been linked, and while Konsa is not actively forcing an exit from Villa Park, he appears receptive to a change of clubs. That leaves Aston Villa firmly in control of any negotiations involving the 28-year-old.
Other defensive options under consideration
Arsenal’s shortlist extends beyond Konsa. West Ham’s Konstantinos Mavropanos is expected to depart following the club’s relegation to the Championship and could represent a more affordable squad addition. Como’s Jacobo Ramon, who has impressed in Serie A, is seen as a longer-term prospect with potential to develop into a regular starter.
Saliba absence heightens urgency
The seriousness of William Saliba’s injury has sharpened Arsenal’s need for reinforcement. The Frenchman has been one of the team’s most reliable performers in recent seasons, and his prolonged absence would leave a clear gap at the heart of defence.
Neither Konsa nor Ramon matches Saliba’s current level, but both could offer useful cover at the start of the campaign. Without a new signing, Mikel Arteta may be forced to shift one of Piero Hincapié, Jurrien Timber, Ben White or Riccardo Calafiori into central defence.
