Liverpool are reportedly aiming to disrupt Arsenal’s upcoming transfer plans.
Having secured a deal for Bruno Guimaraes and concluded their high-profile chase for Vinicius Jr, the Gunners have shifted their focus toward strengthening their defense, with Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa emerging as a primary target.
However, because the Reds are also in the market for defensive reinforcements, they might deliver a quiet setback to the reigning Premier League champions.
Liverpool contemplating bid for Ezri Konsa despite Gunners’ pursuit
As reported by The Guardian, the Aston Villa defender has caught the attention of the Merseyside club, with manager Arne Slot seeking a reliable partner for Virgil van Dijk at the back.
Following Ibrahima Konate’s departure to Real Madrid and with Van Dijk now 35, bolstering defensive depth has become critical—particularly as young prospects Jeremy Jacquet and Giovanni Leoni are both recovering from recent injury layoffs.
Thus far, Jacquet and Victor Munoz represent the sole acquisitions at Anfield this summer, and the squad’s shortage of options was recently underscored when assistant coach Tommy Elphick, the ex-Bournemouth skipper, was forced to participate as a central defender in training.
Additionally, Konsa offers the versatility to slot in at right-back, a role that has posed selection difficulties for both Premier League clubs.
Reports from FourFourTwo indicate that the North London side has been juggling multiple options, though the reigning champions have hesitated to match the £60 million valuation while focusing on potential deals for Vinicius Jr and Bruno Guimaraes.
Competition from Iraola, a lifelong friend of Mikel Arteta, might motivate Arsenal to finalize the transfer, particularly since injuries have sidelined both Ben White and Jurrien Timber from World Cup action.
Furthermore, with William Saliba’s fitness remaining uncertain, Konsa could provide crucial coverage in that position.
“Looking at our options at center-back and right-back, I believe our defensive numbers are currently quite limited,” Iraola noted recently.
Meanwhile, an injury will also prevent Joe Gomez from featuring in the opening fixtures of the campaign.
According to Transfermarkt, Konsa carries a market value of €45m. Meanwhile, Liverpool are scheduled to face Newcastle United in their opening fixture of the season.
