McAteer wants Liverpool to trump Arsenal for Konsa

Former Liverpool defender Jason McAteer has called on his old club to hijack Arsenal's move for Aston Villa centre-back Ezri Konsa. The 27-year-old English defender is reportedly valued at £38m by Villa, with Arsenal long linked. However, following Ibrahima Konate's departure from Anfield, McAteer believes Liverpool must act.

Context of the defensive need at Liverpool

Ibrahima Konate's exit leaves a significant gap in Liverpool's backline. The French centre-back was a key figure under manager Arne Slot, providing physicality and pace. Without him, the Reds have only Virgil van Dijk, Jarell Quansah, and Joe Gomez as senior central defenders. Slot may seek reinforcements before the transfer window closes.

Konsa, an England international, has established himself at Villa Park under Unai Emery. He offers versatility across the back four and has impressed with his composure on the ball. His £38m price tag is considered reasonable in the current market for a Premier League-proven defender of his age.

Impact on Arsenal's plans and the title race

Arsenal have been monitoring Konsa for some time as they look to bolster their defensive options. Mikel Arteta already has William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães as first-choice, but depth behind them is lacking. If Liverpool swoop in, the Gunners may need to pivot to alternative targets, potentially weakening their squad depth for the title challenge.

  • Konsa's arrival at Liverpool would immediately compete with van Dijk for a starting spot, raising the defence's quality.
  • For Arsenal, losing out could mean relying on Ben White as cover at centre-back, limiting tactical flexibility.
  • In Fantasy Premier League, Konsa at £5.0m would be a solid mid-price option with clean sheet potential at either club.

Liverpool currently sit second in the Premier League, three points behind Manchester City, while Arsenal are fourth, six points adrift. Strengthening the defence could be crucial for both sides' ambitions.

What's next in the saga

Aston Villa are under no pressure to sell Konsa, with the player contracted until 2028. However, a £38m bid may test their resolve. Liverpool's hierarchy must decide whether to enter a bidding war. Arsenal, meanwhile, have other targets in mind, but time is running out before the window shuts on 1 September. Expect decisive action within the next fortnight.

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