Arsenal reignite interest in Aston Villa's Konsa

What the report says

BBC Sport Football reports that Arsenal are renewing their interest in Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa as they look to strengthen at centre-back. Konsa, 28, is described as the preferred target because of his versatility, and Arsenal are said to be prepared to improve on their earlier approach after an initial bid in the region of £30m did not match Villa’s reported £60m valuation.

The article says Konsa is currently on holiday after the World Cup and is not involved in Villa’s squad for Wednesday’s Super Cup match against Paris Saint-Germain. He made 48 appearances in all competitions last season and was part of the Villa side that won the Europa League. BBC Sport notes that Arsenal have shifted attention to defence after completing the signing of Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle.

The report also says Arsenal have made exploratory contact with Tottenham about defender Cristian Romero, though Spurs are believed to be unwilling to sell their captain to a direct rival. Romero’s return from a knee injury to start for Argentina at the World Cup is highlighted as part of his recent form. The broader context is that Arsenal appear to be targeting established Premier League defenders as they seek to add experience and depth before the new season.