Arsenal have reportedly returned to Aston Villa over a potential move for Ezri Konsa as Mikel Arteta steps up his search for another centre-back.
The Gunners have been back in contact with Villa over the England international, but a significant gap remains between the two clubs over his valuation.
Villa continue to demand around £60million for Konsa, while Arsenal are unwilling to meet that figure as things stand, according to the Mirror.
Arsenal return for Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa
Arsenal’s renewed contact represents another development in a transfer story that has run throughout the summer.
ReadAstonVilla reported on Tuesday that Aston Villa were standing firm as Arsenal remained well short of Konsa’s valuation.
Villa have given little indication that they are prepared to lower their asking price.
Konsa has developed into one of Unai Emery’s most reliable defenders and enhanced his reputation further with England during the World Cup.
Arsenal’s need for another centre-back has also increased because of injury problems in Arteta’s squad.
William Saliba remains unavailable following the back injury he suffered during the World Cup, while Jurrien Timber is still working his way back from groin surgery.
The Times reports that Arsenal retain their interest in Konsa but remain unwilling to meet Villa’s £60m valuation.
That leaves the pressure on Arsenal to decide whether they are prepared to significantly improve their position.
Konsa still has two years remaining on his Villa contract, giving the club considerable control over negotiations.
Villa have already undergone substantial changes this summer and losing another established starter would leave Emery with another major position to address before the Premier League campaign begins.
Arsenal have now returned to the table, but Villa’s message remains clear: Konsa will not leave cheaply.
