Aston Villa are increasingly resigned to losing Ezri Konsa, with Arsenal expected to make an improved bid for the 28-year-old defender after an initial offer was rejected.
Arsenal's transfer plans
Arsenal, the Premier League champions, have focused on strengthening their attack this summer. Christos Tzolis joined from Club Brugge, and more reinforcements are expected. However, their pursuit of Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior has ended in failure.
The disappointment of missing out on the Brazilian forward will be partly offset by the imminent signing of his international teammate Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle in a £75million deal.
Defensive concerns
Despite the need for attacking additions, Mikel Arteta is aware of the need to strengthen the league's meanest defence, especially with William Saliba facing an extended spell on the sidelines due to a back injury.
Saliba aggravated the injury during France's World Cup semi-final defeat to Spain. A statement on Arsenal's official website confirmed: 'William Saliba has returned to us from World Cup duty, where he played an integral role in France reaching the semi-finals of the competition. Subsequent specialist reviews on William's return to London this week have confirmed that he has suffered a back injury which will require a period of rehabilitation. Extensive assessments have concluded that surgery is not recommended, but William should now commence a managed recovery programme. William's rehabilitation will commence immediately, with continual management of his injury, and he is expected to be out of action for an extended period. Everyone is fully focused on supporting William to ensure he is back to full fitness as soon as possible.'
Konsa as a solution
Konsa would provide cover for Saliba and could also offer a solution at right-back, where Jurrien Timber and Ben White have both struggled with injuries over the past 18 months.
Villa were annoyed at being lowballed by Arsenal's opening offer but acknowledge a move is possible if the Gunners return with an improved bid, according to the Daily Mail.
Arsenal have also shown interest in wantaway Tottenham captain Cristian Romero, but the Argentina international appears set to join Atletico Madrid.
