EPL: Ezri Konsa completes £51m move to Arsenal

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Ezri Konsa has completed a £51m move from Aston Villa to Arsenal, signing a four-year contract with the Premier League champions, with an option for a further year.

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The 28-year-old England defender becomes Arsenal’s latest major addition as they strengthen their squad ahead of the new season. The deal could earn Aston Villa a further £4m in add-ons.

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As reported by BBC Sport on Friday, Konsa said, “It’s a privilege to be here, and I can’t wait to get started,” Konsa said after completing the transfer.

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“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.”

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Konsa joined Villa from Brentford in July 2019 and made 286 appearances for the club. His performances established him as one of the Premier League’s most consistent defenders.

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Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta praised Konsa’s qualities, highlighting his athleticism, composure and tactical intelligence.

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“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.”

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Konsa’s arrival strengthens Arsenal’s defensive options, with his ability to operate at centre-back and right-back expected to give manager Mikel Arteta greater flexibility.

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The Gunners had also considered Bayer Leverkusen defender Jarrell Quansah before reaching an agreement with Villa for Konsa.

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After weeks of negotiations, Arsenal finally secured their target, with Konsa now looking forward to beginning a new chapter in north London and competing for major honours.

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