Arsenal have strengthened their defence with their first defensive signing of the summer, bringing England international Ezri Konsa to the Emirates from Aston Villa on a long-term deal.The 28-year-old brings seven years of experience at Villa Park, where he made more than 200 Premier League appearances in all competitions. His professional journey began at Charlton Athletic, where he broke into the senior side in 2016 and quickly established himself as one of the club's most promising young defenders.Built for the battle. Konsa is a Gunner ✍️ pic.twitter.com/osUk47982u— Arsenal (@Arsenal) August 21, 2026 Konsa's performances earned him a transfer to Brentford in 2018. After an impressive 2018-19 season, the defender attracted Premier League attention, with Aston Villa securing his services in 2019. He went on to become a dependable figure in Villa's back line, with his versatility at centre-back and right-back further enhancing his reputation.At international level, Konsa represented England at Under-20 and Under-21 level before receiving his senior debut in 2023. He has since become a regular member of the Three Lions squad, featuring at both Euro 2024 and the 2026 World Cup.Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta welcomed the defender's arrival, saying: "We are delighted to complete the signing of Ezri Konsa. He is a defender of high quality, and his physical attributes, composure and tactical intelligence have made him one of the most consistent players at this level in the Premier League. Thanks to his ability to play at centre-back and right-back, Ezri will give our team important flexibility, while maintaining the high defensive standards that are a key element in our pursuit of major honours."Ezri Konsa is reunited with Eberechi Eze. ❤️🏴 pic.twitter.com/IAM5xQ7QVt— afcstuff (@afcstuff) August 21, 2026 Berta also highlighted Konsa's experience and mentality, adding: "We are welcoming a player with proven experience in the Premier League and at international level, along with strong leadership qualities, and he will be able to adapt smoothly to our style of play. Just as importantly, we are welcoming a player who possesses the character and mentality needed to make an immediate impact within our club."Konsa will take the No. 15 shirt at Arsenal and is set to join his new teammates in London immediately as he begins the next chapter of his career.PREMIER LEAGUE – MATCHDAY 1Friday22.00: (1.20) Arsenal (6.75) Coventry (14.0)Saturday14.30: (8.50) Hull (4.80) Manchester United (1.43)17.00: (2.25) Everton (3.50) Crystal Palace (3.40)17.00: (2.80) Ipswich (3.25) Sunderland (2.60)17.00: (2.35) Nottingham Forest (3.45) Leeds (3.20)19.30: (2.50) Brentford (3.50) Tottenham (2.95)Sunday16.00: (2.30) Brighton (3.50) Aston Villa (3.25)16.00: (1.53) Manchester City (5.00) Bournemouth (6.00)18.30: (3.90) Newcastle (3.70) Liverpool (2.00)Monday22.00: (3.70) Fulham (3.80) Chelsea (2.00)***odds are subject to change***
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