William Saliba injury: Arsenal eye Ezri Konsa as cover

William Saliba could miss months if surgery is required, forcing Arsenal to seek defensive reinforcements. Mikel Arteta's side are reportedly targeting Aston Villa's Ezri Konsa as a potential replacement, with the defender's strong 2025/26 campaign making him an attractive option.

Why Konsa appeals to Arsenal

Konsa played 4,170 minutes across 48 games last season, starting 46 of them. His consistency and reliability were key for Aston Villa, who kept 15 clean sheets with him in the side. While his tackle success rate was low at 43.33%, he excelled in clearances, making 164-54 more than any Villa teammate.

Konsa's defensive strengths

The centre-back won back possession 161 times, second only to Morgan Rogers. He also led Villa in headed clearances (77) and was disciplined, receiving just one yellow and one red card. His 66.2% success rate in one-on-one duels and 42 headed duels won from 82 contested show his aerial ability.

Transfer complications

Unai Emery may resist selling two key players to Arsenal, with Morgan Rogers also linked. Arteta faces urgency, as Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice will miss training after England's game against France. Konsa's potential arrival would address Arsenal's defensive needs while Saliba recovers.