Ezri Konsa is set to leave Villa this week after the club accepted Arsenal’s offer of approximately £50 million with additional clauses. The England defender could seal his switch to the Premier League holders before the weekend, and if he sits out Friday’s clash with Coventry, his first appearance for his new club could come at Villa Park.
Here are five potential successors…
Zabarnyi’s spell at PSG has not gone to plan since joining the French giants last summer. The £57 million arrival made just 37 appearances in the previous campaign and was in the starting XI for only two of their 17 Champions League fixtures. The Parisian side might consider accepting a reduced fee given his limited impact.
Club Brugge’s Ordoñez caught Villa’s eye during the 2024/25 season, notably keeping Ollie Watkins quiet when the Belgian outfit secured a 1-0 home victory in the league phase. Still only 22, Ordoñez would require significant investment, though his value could surge significantly if he develops further under Unai Emery. Despite currently recovering from a foot problem, he represents a long-term acquisition for the future.
Tomori arrived at AC Milan in January 2021 and helped the club clinch the Serie A title during his first full season five years ago. Now in his prime at 28, Tomori could be available this summer as he seeks a fresh challenge. Milan will compete in the Europa League next term after finishing fifth, missing out on Champions League qualification.
Chelsea’s Tosin has emerged as a candidate to fill the void left by Konsa, with Villa hoping to increase their quota of homegrown players. This becomes particularly important if Watkins and Martinez depart. Tosin moved to Stamford Bridge on a free transfer last summer following his Fulham contract expiration but has featured sparingly. The 28-year-old made 15 Premier League starts during 2024/25 but only eight the previous campaign.
A younger alternative is Real Sociedad’s Martin, who celebrated his 20th birthday in April. The Spanish centre-back demonstrated considerable promise, making 25 La Liga starts last season. His background with Roberto Olabe at the Basque club means he is well known to Villa’s sporting director, and Emery is familiar with his abilities. However, questions remain whether he is ready for immediate first-team responsibility.