Arsenal have reached an agreement with Aston Villa to sign England international defender Ezri Konsa in a deal worth £51 million, plus add-ons, according to David Ornstein.

The 28-year-old is set to undergo his medical with the Gunners on Thursday after reportedly saying his goodbyes to his Aston Villa teammates and staff.

Konsa has established himself as one of the Premier League's most reliable defenders during his time at Villa Park, while his performances have also earned him recognition at international level with England.

The centre-back joined Aston Villa from Brentford in 2019 and has since made more than 200 appearances for the club, playing a key role in their rise under Unai Emery and their return to the Champions League.

Now, after seven years in Birmingham, Konsa is set for a new challenge in north London.

Why Arsenal Are Signing Ezri Konsa

Arsenal's move for Konsa appears to be closely linked to their need for greater depth at centre-back following William Saliba's injury.

Saliba is expected to be out of action for an extended period, although he will not require surgery.

The French defender has been a key figure in Mikel Arteta's defence in recent seasons, and his absence could leave Arsenal short of options during a demanding campaign across multiple competitions.

Konsa's arrival would therefore provide important cover and competition in central defence.

Konsa's versatility could prove particularly valuable. Primarily a centre-back, the England international has also demonstrated his ability to operate at right-back when required, giving Arteta another option across the defensive line.

With Arsenal competing for the Premier League, Champions League and domestic trophies, adding another experienced defender could be crucial.

Konsa's Premier League experience also means he should require little time to adapt to the demands of English football.

Ezri Konsa's Rise from Brentford to England

Konsa's career has developed steadily since emerging at Brentford.

He joined Aston Villa in 2019 and quickly became an important part of the club's defence, eventually developing into one of the league's most consistent centre-backs.

His performances at Villa eventually earned him an England call-up, and he has since become part of Gareth Southgate's successor's plans at international level.

His ability to defend one-on-one, recover quickly and remain composed in possession has made him an attractive option for top clubs.

At 28, the Gunners are also signing a player entering what should be the prime years of his career.

What Konsa's Departure Means for Aston Villa

For Villa, losing Konsa represents a major change to their defensive options.

The defender has been an important figure throughout one of the most successful periods in the club's recent history, including their qualification for the Champions League.

However, the reported £51m fee, with further add-ons potentially taking the total higher, gives Villa significant funds to reinvest in the squad.

Konsa's departure will leave Emery with a sizeable gap to fill, particularly given the club's own ambitions of competing in Europe.

For Arsenal, meanwhile, the move represents another statement of intent.

Konsa brings Premier League experience, international pedigree and versatility, while his arrival could provide Arteta with the additional defensive security needed to compete across a long season.

If the medical goes to plan on Thursday, Arsenal will move closer to completing the signing of an experienced England international who could provide important cover and competition during Saliba's extended absence.