Arsenal are exploring the possibility of signing both Ezri Konsa and Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa as Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen his squad ahead of the new season.
According to reports, the Gunners are considering a double move for the England internationals, who are currently in North America with Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup squad.
Konsa has been one of England’s standout performers during the tournament, playing every minute so far and cementing his place as Tuchel’s first-choice centre-back. His versatility is also viewed as a major asset, with the 27-year-old capable of operating at both centre-back and right-back.
The Daily Mail claims Arsenal believe a deal for Konsa could be completed for around £35m, although Aston Villa are understood to value the defender more highly.
Villa’s financial position could play a significant role in any negotiations. Konsa has two years remaining on his current contract, and Arsenal are reportedly aware that the Midlands club may need to generate funds this summer to comply with the Premier League’s Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR).
Morgan Rogers also remains firmly on Arsenal’s radar. The attacking midfielder is said to have attracted strong interest from the north London club, with England teammate Declan Rice reportedly encouraging him to make the switch to the Emirates Stadium.
Reports suggest Arsenal believe an offer in the region of £85m could be enough to begin formal discussions with Villa over the 23-year-old.
However, any move for Rogers is unlikely to be straightforward. Middlesbrough are entitled to a 20 per cent sell-on clause following his transfer to Villa in January 2024, while the England international is under contract until 2031, leaving Unai Emery’s side in a strong negotiating position.
Rogers enjoyed an outstanding campaign last season, scoring 14 goals and registering 12 assists in 55 appearances across all competitions as Villa lifted the Europa League trophy.
Arsenal are expected to be active in the transfer market as they look to build on last season’s Premier League title success.
Speaking about the club’s summer plans at the end of the previous campaign, Arteta said:”We’ll start to make some very important decisions. We want to reach another level.
“We’re going to have to show that ambition because they are more than capable of doing it, but it’s going to demand us to be very, very ambitious, very fast and very smart.”