Aston Villa exodus to continue as Ezri Konsa concerns 'emerge from dressing room'
Aston Villa's players are reportedly becoming increasingly convinced that Ezri Konsa will leave the club this summer.
Arsenal are thought to be the main contender for the 28-year-old's signature, having already launched an offer for him earlier in the window.
That bid was reportedly worth just over £30million, with decision-makers at Villa Park holding out for a fee in the region of £60m.
Konsa has just two years remaining on his contract and will likely command a far reduced fee next summer if Villa do not sell, but he is a key part of Unai Emery's team.
The Spaniard has already lost Morgan Rogers to Chelsea, Youri Tielemans to Manchester United, Amadou Onana to an ACL injury and will also soon lose Lucas Digne to PSG.
Despite winning the Europa League in May, the squad at Villa Park now looks vastly different and, in some eyes, not at all prepared for the congestion that comes with a Champions League campaign.
Ezri Konsa edging towards Aston Villa exit
Konsa joined Villa in 2019 and has been a key part of the side ever since, making over 30 appearances in every year he has spent at the club.
And international recognition has finally followed, with the 28-year-old selected for the World Cup this summer and featuring in every game.
The Villans would have been aware that a stage such as that would attract attention, but Arsenal's interest is born from circumstances.
William Saliba's back injury is expected to keep him out for several months at the start of the season, with Mikel Arteta keen to add even more depth at the back.
Konsa's ability to play on the right would also be a benefit, considering the extensive injury records of both Jurrien Timber and Ben White.
According to the Daily Mail, Villa's squad have become increasingly resigned to the defender's departure this summer. Although the gap in valuation remains.
Why would Konsa join Arsenal?
Konsa will be well aware that once Saliba returns, he would fall down the pecking order at Arsenal.
Gabriel and the Frenchman are arguably the greatest defensive force in the world. Minutes on the right would be limited, too, with Timber far too good to leave out.
At Villa, Konsa has a guaranteed place in the starting XI, so why would he leave? The answer is simple - trophies.
While the defender ended his wait for a career trophy when he lifted the Europa League in May, that success may have only left him wanting more.
Winning the Premier League or the Champions League is the pinnacle for most players, and at the age of 28, a move to Arsenal offers the chance to do it.