Seven defenders on the books - why Arsenal still want Konsa

What the report says

BBC Sport Football reports that Arsenal are moving for Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa even after already spending more than £100m this summer, with the deal said to be worth about £51m. The timing comes as Mikel Arteta’s side prepare to defend their Premier League title and look to strengthen a squad that was stretched by injuries last season.

The article says Arsenal’s need for more defensive cover has grown because William Saliba is out for an extended period and Jurrien Timber is also expected to miss the opening weeks of the season. That leaves Ben White, who has had fitness concerns, as the main fit right-back option, while Cristhian Mosquera is the other right-sided centre-back available to partner Gabriel Magalhaes. BBC Sport notes that Arsenal have already made Piero Hincapie’s loan permanent and have seven senior defenders on the books, but Arteta appears to want another reliable option.

Konsa, 28, is presented as a strong fit because of his experience, versatility and passing ability. He helped Villa win the Europa League last season and was a regular for England at the World Cup. The report highlights his strong defensive and distribution numbers in the Premier League and says he had an excellent pass completion rate for England as well.

More broadly, BBC Sport says Arsenal are aiming to build a squad with enough depth to handle a heavy schedule after playing 63 matches in all competitions last season. The club’s wider ambition is to become one of Europe’s top superclubs, while still looking for attacking additions as well.