Arteta targets two EPL defenders as Saliba faces serious injury

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is considering moves for John Stones and Ezri Konsa following news that defender William Saliba is expected to be sidelined for an extended period through injury.

Saliba sustained a back injury while representing France at the 2026 FIFA World Cup and has opted against undergoing surgery.

The 25-year-old is instead expected to embark on a lengthy rehabilitation programme, leaving Arsenal in the market for defensive reinforcements ahead of the new season.

According to reports, Arteta has identified former Manchester City defender John Stones and Aston Villa centre-back Ezri Konsa as potential replacements.

Stones is currently available as a free agent after leaving Manchester City at the expiration of his contract. The England international previously worked under Arteta during the Spaniard’s spell as Pep Guardiola’s assistant at the Etihad Stadium.

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Konsa, who partnered Stones in England’s 2026 World Cup squad, remains under contract at Aston Villa until 2028.

Both defenders are capable of playing at centre-back and right-back, providing the versatility Arteta is believed to be seeking as Arsenal prepare for the new campaign.

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