Arsenal target faces £60m transfer hurdle

Arsenal target faces £60m transfer hurdle Ezri Konsa is admired in north London, yet Aston Villa’s valuation means any breakthrough could still be some way off. Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images Arsenal ‘s search for defensive reinforcements has increasingly focused on Ezri Konsa , with the Aston Villa defender emerging as one of the club’s leading targets following William Saliba ‘s long-term back injury . The need for another centre-back has grown significantly after Saliba was ruled out for an extended period, and Konsa is understood to be viewed as an ideal option thanks to his Premier League experience and ability to play at both centre-back and right-back. Reports suggest Arsenal have already tested Villa’s resolve with an opening bid, but it was rejected. The Gunners are now said to be weighing up whether to return with an improved offer as they look to strengthen before the transfer window closes. Villa’s valuation, however, remains the major stumbling block. Photo by David Rogers/Getty Images The England international is reportedly valued at no less than £60 million, with current reports describing a sizeable gap of around £20m between Arsenal’s assessment of the player and Villa’s asking price. Konsa also has two years remaining on his contract at Villa Park, leaving the Midlands club under no immediate pressure to sell. They are instead understood to be keen to extend his existing deal. There have also been reports that Konsa would be open to a move to Arsenal, although that should not be confused with an agreement between the two clubs, which remains some way off. From Arsenal’s perspective, the attraction is obvious. Photo by Darrian Traynor/Getty Images At 28, Konsa offers experience at both Premier League and international level, along with pace, physicality and valuable defensive versatility. For now, however, the transfer appears to hinge on one issue. Arsenal’s interest is genuine and Konsa remains one of their preferred options to provide cover during Saliba’s absence, but unless the Gunners return with an offer much closer to Villa’s reported £60 million valuation, negotiations are unlikely to move forward. Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images