Arsenal Unveil England International Hours Before Premier League Opener

Arsenal has officially announced the signing of Ezri Konsa from Aston Villa for a fixed fee of £51 million, with an additional £4 million in potential add-ons. The 28-year-old England international has penned a four-year deal, with an option for an additional 12 months, and will wear the number 15 shirt. This move addresses one of Mikel Arteta's significant concerns, stemming from William Saliba's injury and Jurrien Timber's recurring issues. Consequently, the Spanish manager sought a versatile defender capable of playing both centrally and on the right side of the defense.

Konsa marks Arsenal's fourth new acquisition this summer, following Bruno Guimarães, Christos Tzolis, and Illan Meslier. Additionally, Piero Hincapié's rights were secured from Bayer Leverkusen.

"To play for one of the best teams in the world is a source of immense pride for me and my family. I want to keep winning; I'm hungry for victories, and that's why I'm here. I'm here to win. I will do everything in my power to continue bringing success to this club," stated Konsa, who could make his Arsenal debut against his former club, Aston Villa, when the Gunners visit Villa Park on August 31st in a Premier League second-round fixture.

Konsa made 286 appearances for Villa since joining from Brentford in July 2019. He played a pivotal role in helping the Birmingham side clinch the Europa League in May, marking the club's first major trophy since 1982.

Konsa featured in every match for England during the recent World Cup.