Transfer
Arsenal are aiming to recruit a centre-back in the summer transfer window; William Saliba is facing an extended spell out after suffering a back injury on World Cup duty with France; Gunners are interested in free agent John Stones and Aston Villa's Ezri Konsa
Thursday 23 July 2026 10:33, UK
Arsenal hold an interest in John Stones and Ezri Konsa as they look to sign a centre-back this summer following news of an extended period on the sidelines for William Saliba.
Saliba has avoided the need for surgery after injuring his back during France's World Cup semi-final defeat to Spain but the 25-year-old faces a lengthy period of rehabilitation.
Stones is available as a free agent having reached the end of his contract at Manchester City last month. Sky Sports News has reported the England defender is a also a target for Chelsea.
The 32-year-old worked with Mikel Arteta during the Arsenal manager's time as assistant to Pep Guardiola at City.
William Saliba out for 'extended period' out with back injury
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England boss Thomas Tuchel has made Ezri Konsa a regular during his reign
Image: Ezri Konsa appeared in all eight England games at the World Cup
Konsa, who represented England alongside Stones at the World Cup, is four years younger than Stones at 28 and has two years remaining on his contract at Aston Villa.
Both players can also operate at right-back.
Arsenal have consolidated their defensive options by completing the permanent signing of Piero Hincapie following his loan spell from Bayer Leverkusen last season.
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They also have Gabriel, Riccardo Calafiori, Cristhian Mosquera, Jurrien Timber and Ben White as centre-back options.
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White has returned to training following the knee injury he suffered in May, while Timber said this week he is "hopefully back soon" as he continues his rehabilitation from a groin problem.