Arsenal are preparing for their Premier League title defence after an impressive 2025-26 campaign under Mikel Arteta.
However, Arsenal now face significant defensive problems ahead of the new season following William Saliba’s back injury.
The centre-back could remain sidelined until next year, while Jurrien Timber has only recently returned to training after a groin injury.
Consequently, Arsenal have stepped up their efforts to strengthen Arteta’s defensive options before the transfer window closes.
Transfer News Live has already reported that Arsenal are now closing in on an agreement with Aston Villa for Ezri Konsa.
Negotiations have accelerated significantly, with both clubs getting closer over the transfer fee and structure of the package.
Villa initially valued the England international at £60 million, but the deal could ultimately cost closer to £50 million.
Konsa‘s ability to operate at centre-back and right-back makes him particularly attractive to Arteta amid Arsenal’s injury problems.
Meanwhile, the negotiations have also forced Arsenal to make an important decision regarding Ben White‘s future.
White lost his regular starting position last season after Timber established himself as Arteta’s preferred right-back.
A knee injury subsequently ended White’s campaign early, although he has since completed his recovery and returned fully fit.
Everton emerged among his leading domestic suitors, while Inter Milan also showed interest before signing Djed Spence.
Arsenal previously considered allowing White to leave, but their current defensive situation has changed those plans.
According to TEAMtalk, the Gunners now have no intention of selling the 28-year-old during the current transfer window, even if Konsa arrives.
Instead, Arsenal expect Konsa to strengthen their defensive options rather than directly replace White in Arteta’s squad.
Villa are also preparing for Konsa’s possible departure and are close to completing a deal for Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
So, Arsenal’s position has become increasingly clear as the deal progresses: Konsa is moving closer to joining, while White will stay.
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