Aston Villa have reportedly received a £65million offer from Arsenal for Ezri Konsa as Mikel Arteta steps up his pursuit of the England international.
Konsa’s future is now under fresh scrutiny, although Unai Emery’s side have given no indication that they are prepared to sanction his departure.
According to Estadio Deportivo, Arsenal have submitted an opening offer worth £65m, equivalent to slightly more than €75m.
The Gunners have identified Konsa as a major defensive target following William Saliba’s back injury, which is expected to keep the France international sidelined during the opening months of the season.
Ezri Konsa Aston Villa future faces fresh Arsenal pressure
Arsenal’s reported bid represents a significant escalation from their earlier enquiry.
ReadAstonVilla previously reported that Villa were unimpressed by Arsenal’s initial approach for Konsa, with Ben Jacobs claiming there was a “huge gulf” between the two clubs’ valuations.
Villa were said to have viewed Arsenal’s position at the time as “quite insulting”.
The latest £65m proposal therefore places significantly more money on the table, but Villa remain in a strong negotiating position.
Konsa is under contract until 2028 and has become one of Emery’s most dependable players. He can operate at centre-back or right-back and returned from the World Cup after playing an important role in England’s third-place finish.
Villa have already lost several major players this summer, including Morgan Rogers to Chelsea and Youri Tielemans to Manchester United.
Allowing Konsa to follow would create another substantial problem for Emery shortly before the competitive season begins.
There is currently no report that Villa have accepted Arsenal’s £65m offer.
The size of the proposal confirms Arsenal’s interest has become considerably more serious, but the next decision belongs to Aston Villa.
