Arsenal have stepped up talks over Ezri Konsa as Mikel Arteta pushes to sign the Aston Villa defender, but a proposed £40million deal remains well short of his club’s valuation.
Konsa has emerged as Arsenal’s leading defensive target during the final weeks of the transfer window, with Arteta looking for another proven option following William Saliba’s injury.
The Gunners have now returned to the negotiating table.
Sky Sports reports that Arsenal have held further discussions over a move for the England international, although the two clubs remain apart on price.
Arsenal step up Ezri Konsa transfer push
Arsenal’s current proposal is understood to be worth around £40million, with Aston Villa continuing to value Konsa at approximately £60million.
Reports on Thursday suggest Villa are expected to reject an offer at Arsenal’s present level, leaving a sizeable £20m gap between the two clubs.
There is, however, encouragement from the player’s side.
Konsa is believed to be open to joining Arsenal if an agreement can be reached, although that should not be confused with a deal being close. Villa also remain interested in extending his contract, which currently has two years left to run.
ReadArsenal reported on Wednesday that Konsa remained Arsenal’s preferred defensive target despite the club considering alternatives such as Jules Kounde and Marc Pubill.
Konsa missed Villa’s Super Cup meeting with Paris Saint-Germain because of his extended break following the World Cup rather than because of transfer negotiations.
His versatility remains a major attraction for Arteta. The 28-year-old is comfortable at centre-back and right-back, giving Arsenal cover in two positions at a time when Saliba is unavailable and Jurrien Timber is still returning to full fitness.
The next move now belongs to Arsenal.
Arteta’s side have resumed talks and Konsa appears receptive, but Villa’s £60m stance means a significant improvement will be needed before negotiations can move towards an agreement.
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