Arsenal are expected to step up their pursuit of a new defender after reaching a £75million agreement with Newcastle United for Bruno Guimarães.
Mikel Arteta is closing in on another major midfield addition, but attention is already turning towards strengthening his defence before the new season.
The Guardian reports that Arsenal are expected to accelerate their search for defensive cover because William Saliba faces an extended spell on the sidelines with a back problem. Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa remains among the players under consideration.
The Guardian reports that Villa value Konsa at around £60million, although Arsenal are currently reluctant to meet that figure.
Arsenal target defender after Bruno Guimarães agreement
Completing the Guimarães deal allows Arsenal to move another major summer priority forward.
ReadArsenal reported on Wednesday that Arsenal have agreed a £75million deal with Newcastle for Guimarães, with Fabrizio Romano confirming personal terms are already in place.
The Brazilian is expected to undergo a medical before completing his move.
Saliba’s absence creates a different problem for Arteta.
The France international aggravated his long-standing back issue during the World Cup and is expected to miss an extended period. Arsenal have Cristhian Mosquera, Ben White and Jurriën Timber capable of playing centrally, but Saliba’s absence removes one of Arteta’s most important defenders.
Konsa would provide extensive Premier League experience and can operate centrally or at right-back.
Liverpool could also provide competition for the England international, while Villa’s £60m valuation remains a significant obstacle.
Arsenal have already committed heavily to Guimarães. However, Wednesday’s development suggests their summer business is not finished yet.
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