Ezri Konsa has completed his £51 million transfer from Aston Villa to Arsenal, signing a four-year contract with the Premier League champions, with an option to extend the deal by another year.
The 28-year-old England international becomes Arsenal’s latest major signing as manager Mikel Arteta continues to strengthen his squad ahead of the new season. Villa could receive a further £4 million in performance-related add-ons.
“It’s a privilege to be here, and I can’t wait to get started,” Konsa said after completing the move.
“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.”
Konsa joined Aston Villa from Brentford in July 2019 and went on to make 286 appearances for the club, establishing himself as one of the Premier League’s most reliable defenders.
Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta praised the defender’s quality, versatility and tactical intelligence.
“Ezri is a defender of high quality,” Berta said. “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.”
Konsa’s ability to operate both at centre-back and right-back is expected to provide Arteta with additional options and flexibility across the defence.
Arsenal had also considered Bayer Leverkusen defender Jarrell Quansah as they assessed their defensive targets before ultimately reaching an agreement with Villa for Konsa.
Following weeks of negotiations, the Gunners have secured their preferred target, with Konsa now set to begin a new chapter in north London as Arsenal look to challenge for major honours.
