Arsenal step up Ezri Konsa pursuit as William Saliba injury sparks defensive search

According to the Daily Mail, the Premier League champions are ready to open talks with Aston Villa after learning Saliba had played throughout France's World Cup campaign with a fractured back.

The France international was forced off during the first half of Les Bleus' semi-final defeat to Spain and is now expected to miss the start of Arsenal's Premier League season, with surgery reportedly under consideration.

Arsenal's interest in Konsa first emerged earlier this month, but the report claims the Gunners are now accelerating their pursuit of the England defender.

Konsa is also said to be keeping an open mind regarding his future after failing to reach an agreement with Villa over a contract extension. His current deal has two years remaining.

Villa are reportedly valuing the 27-year-old at £60 million, following another impressive campaign that included strong performances for England at the World Cup.

Earlier this month, Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins described his club and international teammate as one of the Premier League's most underrated defenders.

"I think Ezri is just so underrated.

"It's mad how under the radar he goes and for so many years he has been.

"I think he's one of the best centre-backs in the Premier League."

Watkins also highlighted Konsa's versatility and defensive reliability.

"Defensively, he hardly puts a foot wrong.

"I remember we played against Brazil and Vinicius Junior couldn't get past him. He's so solid.

"He can play right-back and obviously his main position is centre-back. If he does play there, I'm fully confident he can bring more than just a job.

"He can go and really excel there and make it really tough for top-class wingers to get past him."

With Saliba facing a spell on the sidelines, Arsenal appear determined to add another experienced defender before the new season begins, although Aston Villa are expected to resist any attempts to prise Konsa away unless their valuation is met.