Arsenal remain interested in signing Aston Villa central defender Ezri Konsa and are prepared to offer up to £40m, worth almost €47m, for the 28-year-old.
The latest development was reported by journalist Ryan Taylor after the two clubs held further talks over the England international this week. However, Arsenal’s proposed fee is still well below Aston Villa’s valuation of their defender.
The Birmingham club continue to demand £60m, approximately €70m, for Konsa. That figure remains unchanged despite the renewed discussions, with Aston Villa not currently prepared to lower their asking price.
Arsenal’s interest in Konsa has not faded, but the difference between the clubs’ positions means an agreement has yet to be reached. The London club are considering an offer worth up to £40m, while Aston Villa are maintaining that a fee of £60m would be required to sanction the transfer.
Aston Villa’s firm stance reflects Konsa’s importance to the team. The defender is regarded as a key member of the first-team squad, and the club have also offered him a new contract.
That offer underlines Aston Villa’s desire to retain the player rather than accept a bid below their valuation. Konsa therefore remains at the centre of negotiations between the clubs, with Arsenal continuing to pursue a deal but facing a substantial gap over the potential fee.
No agreement has been reached following this week’s talks. Arsenal’s interest is focused on securing Konsa, while Aston Villa are holding to the same £60m demand they have previously set for the England defender.
Konsa has been identified by Arsenal as a target for their defence, but the clubs’ contrasting positions remain the main obstacle to a transfer. Arsenal are willing to propose almost €47m, whereas Aston Villa expect around €70m and have no intention of making concessions at this stage.
The next step will depend on whether Arsenal are prepared to improve their offer or whether Aston Villa change their position. For now, the player’s current club continue to value him at £60m and are simultaneously seeking to extend his contract.