Arsenal have completed the signing of England defender Ezri Konsa from Aston Villa in a deal that could eventually be worth £55 million, strengthening their defensive options ahead of the new Premier League campaign.
The 28-year-old has joined the Premier League champions for a guaranteed £51 million, with Villa potentially receiving another £4 million in performance-related add-ons. Arsenal confirmed the transfer on Friday.
Konsa has signed a four-year contract at the Emirates Stadium, with Arsenal holding an option to extend the agreement by a further season. He will wear the No 15 shirt.
Arsenal add proven Premier League defender
The England international arrives with considerable Premier League experience and offers Arsenal additional flexibility because of his ability to operate both at centre-back and right-back.
Arsenal had been pursuing defensive reinforcements with William Saliba facing an extended spell on the sidelines and Jurrien Timber also unavailable because of a long-term groin problem. The Gunners had tracked Konsa during the summer before reaching an agreement with Villa.
Andrea Berta hails Konsa’s versatility
Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta welcomed the signing and highlighted the qualities the club believes Konsa will add to Mikel Arteta’s squad.
“We’re delighted to have completed the signing of Ezri Konsa,” Berta said.
“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.”
Berta also pointed to Konsa’s experience at domestic and international level and believes the defender is well equipped to settle quickly at Arsenal.
“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.”
£51m breakthrough ends Arsenal pursuit
Arsenal’s interest in Konsa had developed over the summer, with reports indicating that Villa previously rejected a £30 million approach and valued the defender at around £60 million. The clubs eventually reached agreement on the £51 million guaranteed fee.
The completed transfer gives Arsenal another experienced defensive option as they prepare to defend their Premier League title. Mikel Arteta’s side begin their league campaign against newly promoted Coventry City.
