Arsenal bolster defence with Konsa signing from Villa

Arsenal has significantly strengthened its defense by securing the signing of England international Ezri Konsa from Aston Villa on a long-term contract.

The 28-year-old defender's transfer to the North London club is reported to be worth approximately 55 million pounds, including potential add-ons, according to British media.

Konsa expressed his excitement about the move, stating, "I’m super excited. It's a privilege to be here and can’t wait to get started. I want to keep winning, I’m hungry to win and that’s what I’m here for. It's a proud moment for me and my family to play for one of the best teams in the world."

He joins Arsenal after six seasons with Aston Villa, where he made 286 appearances following his transfer from Brentford in 2019. Konsa was a crucial player in Villa's Europa League-winning campaign last season, featuring in 48 games across all competitions. He also represented England at the 2026 World Cup, starting seven matches and scoring in the third-place playoff victory against France.

The versatile defender is expected to play a vital role for Arsenal, particularly as the team navigates through injuries to key defenders William Saliba and Jurrien Timber. Saliba is facing an extended period on the sidelines due to a back injury, while Timber has been hampered by a groin problem since March and was unable to represent the Netherlands at the World Cup. Arsenal is set to begin their Premier League title defense at home against Coventry City.

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I’m super excited. It's a privilege to be here and can’t wait to get started. I want to keep winning, I’m hungry to win and that’s what I’m here for. It's a proud moment for me and my family to play for one of the best teams in the world.