EPL: Ezri Konsa completes £51m move to Arsenal
August 21, 2026 4:51 pm
Ezri Konsa signing the deal
Photo: Fabrizio Romano
Ezri Konsa has completed a £51m move from Aston Villa to Arsenal, signing a four-year contract with the Premier League champions, with an option for a further year.
The 28-year-old England defender becomes Arsenal’s latest major addition as they strengthen their squad ahead of the new season. The deal could earn Aston Villa a further £4m in add-ons.
As reported by BBC Sport on Friday, Konsa said, “It’s a privilege to be here, and I can’t wait to get started,” Konsa said after completing the transfer.
“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 and made 286 appearances for the club. His performances established him as one of the Premier League’s most consistent defenders.
Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta praised Konsa’s qualities, highlighting his athleticism, composure and tactical intelligence.
“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 maintaining the high defensive standards which are fundamental to our challenge of winning major trophies.”
Konsa’s arrival strengthens Arsenal’s defensive options, with his ability to operate at centre-back and right-back expected to give manager Mikel Arteta greater flexibility.
The Gunners had also considered Bayer Leverkusen defender Jarrell Quansah before reaching an agreement with Villa for Konsa.
After weeks of negotiations, Arsenal finally secured their target, with Konsa now looking forward to beginning a new chapter in north London and competing for major honours.
Gilbert Ekugbe is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with over a decade of experience reporting on business and economic affairs. He covers markets, corporate developments, finance, and Nigeria’s broader economic landscape. His reporting is informed by extensive newsroom experience and a strong commitment to accuracy and responsible journalism, helping readers understand complex business issues.
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