Image source: Arsenal
Arsenal have signed England international Ezri Konsa from Premier League rivals Aston Villa.
Konsa joins Premier League champions Arsenal for a reported $104million AUD on a long-term contract, having emerged as a top defensive target for the Gunners.
Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal wanted to add a versatile defender who can play right-back and centre-back with William Saliba sidelined due to a back injury and Jurrien Timber still weeks away as he aims to overcome a groin injury.
Konsa, who featured for England at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, was unveiled before Arsenal’s 3-0 season-opening win against newly-promoted Coventry City in the Premier League.
“It’s a privilege to be here and can’t wait to get started,” said Konsa. “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.”
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Konsa was a key part of Villa’s UEFA Europa League-winning campaign last season, making 48 appearances across all competitions – scoring twice.
He joined Villa in 2019 and has made almost 300 appearances for the Premier League outfit.
Konsa is set to become Arsenal’s fifth signing, after making Piero Hincapie’s loan move from Bayer Leverkusen permanent before recruiting goalkeeper Illan Meslier, Christos Tzolis and Bruno Guimaraes.
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“We’re delighted to have completed the signing of Ezri Konsa,” said Sporting Director Andrea Berta.
“Ezri is a defender of high quality, whose athleticism, composure and tactical intelligence have established him as one of the Premier League’s most consistent performers.
“Being comfortable in both central defence and at right-back, Ezri will bring valuable versatility to our squad while maintaining the high defensive standards which are fundamental to our challenge of winning major trophies.
“We are welcoming a player with proven Premier League and international experience, and strong leadership qualities, who will adapt seamlessly to our style of play. Just as importantly, we are welcoming a player with the character and mentality to make an immediate impact within our club.
“We welcome Ezri and his family to Arsenal.”