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Ezri Konsa: Career profile and key stats for Arsenal’s defensive target
20th August, 2026 09:21 AM
Arsenal have reached a Ksh8.94 billion agreement with Aston Villa to sign England international Ezri Konsa, in a move that could add further defensive strength to Mikel Arteta’s squad ahead of the new season.
Konsa, 28, has established himself as one of the Premier League’s most dependable defenders since joining Villa in 2019.
His ability to operate both at centre-back and right-back is expected to make him an attractive addition for Arsenal as they look to maintain depth across their backline.
Career overview
Born in London, Konsa began his senior career with Charlton Athletic after progressing through the club’s academy.
He quickly became an important member of the first team, making 39 appearances during the 2016/17 campaign and earning the club’s Young Player of the Year award.
The defender moved to Brentford in 2018 and spent one season with the Championship side before earning a transfer to Aston Villa in July 2019.
Konsa has since developed into a key figure at Villa Park. He has made more than 230 league appearances for the club and has also featured prominently in European competition.
His performances have earned him recognition at the international level. Konsa represented England at the under-20 and under-21 levels before making his senior debut in March 2024. He has subsequently become part of England’s senior defensive options.
The defender’s versatility could be particularly valuable to Arsenal. While naturally suited to central defence, Konsa has also demonstrated that he can comfortably operate at right-back when required.
His leadership qualities have also grown in recent seasons. In November 2025, he captained Villa in a Europa League victory over Maccabi Tel Aviv, with manager Unai Emery subsequently confirming that Konsa had been appointed vice-captain behind John McGinn.
Europa League
Konsa was also part of the Aston Villa side that won the Europa League final in May 2026, further adding to his experience of competing at the highest level.
A move to Arsenal would therefore represent another major step in his career and could give the Gunners an experienced Premier League defender capable of contributing in multiple positions.
For Aston Villa, however, losing a player who has become an important part of the team would represent a significant change. Konsa remains under contract at Villa, meaning Arsenal would need to complete the necessary formalities before the transfer can be officially confirmed.
If the reported agreement is completed, Konsa would become another experienced defensive option for Arteta as Arsenal prepare for another demanding campaign domestically and in Europe.
