Arsenal sign England defender Ezri Konsa from Aston Villa

Arsenal have signed England international Ezri Konsa from Aston Villa on a long-term contract, the club confirmed on 21 August 2026.

The 28-year-old centre-back spent seven seasons at Villa Park, making over 200 Premier League appearances across all competitions and establishing himself as one of the division's most consistent defenders.

Sporting Director Andrea Berta said: "Ezri is a defender of high quality, whose athleticism, composure and tactical intelligence have established him as one of the Premier League's most consistent performers. 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."

Berta added that Konsa brings "proven Premier League and international experience, and strong leadership qualities" and described him as a player with "the character and mentality to make an immediate impact."

Konsa began his career at Charlton Athletic, making his senior debut in 2016 before joining Brentford in 2018. A strong campaign in 2018/19 earned him a Premier League move to Aston Villa in 2019.

At international level, Konsa represented England's Under-20s and Under-21s before earning his senior debut in 2023. He has since featured at UEFA Euro 2024 and the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Konsa will wear the number 15 shirt at Emirates Stadium. The transfer remains subject to the completion of regulatory processes.