Arsenal have renewed their pursuit of Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa after an earlier summer approach failed to produce a deal. The Premier League champions are seeking to strengthen their defence following the signing of Bruno Guimaraes, with Konsa’s ability to play in different positions viewed as a major attraction.

Villa value the 28-year-old England international at £60m, while Arsenal’s initial offer was around £30m, so the Gunners expect to raise their bid substantially. Konsa played 48 matches as Villa won the Europa League last season; Arsenal have also made exploratory enquiries about Tottenham captain Cristian Romero, though Spurs are not expected to sell him to their north London rivals.