Arsenal are preparing a summer raid on Aston Villa that could land England internationals Ezri Konsa and Morgan Rogers for a combined fee in excess of £120m, with the club’s need to raise funds through player sales providing an unexpected advantage.
Konsa, who has played every minute of England’s World Cup campaign under Thomas Tuchel, is emerging as a genuine transfer target for the Gunners, according to reports. The 27-year-old’s versatility – capable at both centre-back and right-back – makes him an attractive option for Mikel Arteta, who is looking to strengthen his squad after winning the Premier League title. Arsenal believe Konsa could be acquired for around £35m, though Villa value him higher. With two years left on his contract, the Midlands club must offload players this summer to comply with profitability and sustainability rules (PSR), a factor that could force their hand.
“Arsenal target Aston Villa duo Ezri Konsa and Morgan Rogers in a potential £120m double deal.”
But the headline figure is Rogers, the 23-year-old attacking midfielder who starred in Villa’s Europa League triumph last season. He scored 14 goals and set up 12 in 55 appearances across all competitions, and has already featured for England at the World Cup – coming off the bench in the opening two group games, playing the full 90 minutes against Panama, and remaining an unused substitute in the 2-1 win over DR Congo. Arsenal are prepared to test Villa’s resolve with a bid in the region of £85m, though complications arise from a 20% sell-on clause that Middlesbrough hold from Rogers’ £8m move in January 2024. Tied to Villa until 2031, the forward is in a strong bargaining position.
Declan Rice, Arsenal’s England midfielder, is reportedly doing his best to persuade his international colleague to swap Villa Park for the Emirates. Arteta, reflecting on the club’s ambitions at the close of last season, 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…” Villa are reluctant to part with Rogers, but may entertain offers for other squad members. For Arsenal, a double swoop would represent a statement of intent as they aim to defend their crown.