Arsenal explore new defensive signing as Ezri Konsa emerges as leading target

Arsenal are continuing their efforts to strengthen their defence this summer, with Aston Villa centre-back Ezri Konsa among their main targets as concerns grow over William Saliba’s injury.

The London club are understood to be considering a move for the 28-year-old, who is reportedly open to the possibility of leaving Villa Park and joining Arsenal at Emirates Stadium.

However, Aston Villa’s valuation of Konsa could prove a significant obstacle. The club are believed to want £60m for the England defender, a figure Arsenal consider high as they assess their options in the transfer market.

Despite the price tag, Arsenal have not ended their interest. Discussions and contact between the relevant parties remain ongoing, with the situation expected to become clearer in the coming days.

Liverpool have also been linked with Konsa, although reports suggest the player is receptive to the idea of taking on a new challenge without attempting to force his way out of Aston Villa. That leaves Villa in a strong position to decide the defender’s future, particularly because he remains under contract.

The club would therefore have the final say over whether to accept any proposal made for Konsa.

According to CaughtOffside, Arsenal’s recruitment team is examining the possibility of signing a new defender, with Konsa currently regarded as one of the leading names on the club’s shortlist.

Arsenal assess three defensive options

Konsa is not the only centre-back being considered by Arsenal. Their list also includes West Ham United defender Konstantinos Mavropanos and Como defender Jacobo Ramon.

Konsa is viewed as the most immediately ready option from a footballing perspective, although Arsenal have yet to decide which candidate will receive top priority during the current transfer window.

Mavropanos is expected to leave West Ham United following the club’s relegation to the Championship. That situation could make the Greece international a more affordable alternative for Arsenal.

Ramon, meanwhile, has attracted attention after producing a series of impressive performances in Italy’s top flight. The Spanish defender is viewed as a player with the potential to develop into an important first-team contributor in the future.

The need for defensive reinforcement has become more pressing because reports indicate that Saliba could be sidelined for a considerable period.

The France international has been one of Arsenal’s most important players in recent seasons, and replacing his presence is now a major priority for manager Mikel Arteta before the new campaign begins.

Neither Konsa nor Ramon offers the same influence as Saliba at this stage, but both would provide greater depth and give Arteta additional options in central defence.

Should Arsenal fail to complete the signing of a new centre-back, Arteta may have to move one of his existing players into the position to cover for Saliba’s expected absence.

Piero Hincapie, Jurrien Timber, Ben White and Riccardo Calafiori are among the players who could be used in central defence if required.