Ezri Konsa has moved from Aston Villa to Arsenal for £51m. He has signed a four-year contract with the Premier League champions, with an option for an extra year.
The 28-year-old England defender is Arsenal’s newest key signing as they prepare for the upcoming season. Aston Villa could earn an extra £4m from the deal through add-ons.
Konsa spoke to BBC Sport on Friday after completing the transfer. He said, "It’s a privilege to be here, and I can’t wait to get started. 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 Villa from Brentford in July 2019. He played 286 matches for the club. His performances made him one of the most reliable defenders in the Premier League.
Arsenal's sporting director Andrea Berta praised Konsa’s skills. He noted Konsa's athleticism, calmness, and smart play.
"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 keeping the high defensive standards we need to win major trophies."
Konsa’s arrival boosts Arsenal’s defence. His ability to play both centre-back and right-back will give manager Mikel Arteta more options.
The Gunners had also looked at Bayer Leverkusen defender Jarrell Quansah before finalizing the deal with Villa for Konsa.
After several weeks of talks, Arsenal has secured their target. Konsa is excited to start a new chapter in north London and compete for major titles.
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