Arsenal face Saliba injury crisis; Arteta eyes Konsa as replacement

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is facing an unwanted headache after star defender William Saliba picked up a back injury while on international duty with France. The club is now weighing up its options, with surgery not ruled out.

Saliba injury a major blow

The 25-year-old centre-back was forced off during France's clash against Spain after experiencing severe discomfort. France manager Didier Deschamps confirmed after the match that Saliba had been playing through pain, but the situation escalated to an 'unbearable level'.

Arsenal's medical team is now assessing the extent of the damage. Multiple reports indicate that surgery is a genuine possibility, which could sideline Saliba for a significant period. The club has not yet issued an official statement on the matter.

Arsenal eye Ezri Konsa

With Saliba's availability for the start of the new season in doubt, Arsenal have reportedly turned their attention to Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa. The England international has been a consistent performer for Unai Emery's side and is seen as a like-for-like replacement.

According to reports, Arsenal are preparing an offer for Konsa. The move would be complicated, however, as Villa are unlikely to part with a key player easily, especially as talks between the two clubs over Morgan Rogers continue.

Konsa, 28, is comfortable in a high defensive line and has experience in both domestic and European competitions. His price tag is expected to be significant, with Villa under no pressure to sell.

Other targets considered

Arsenal have also been urged by pundits to move for a £55 million target also linked with Chelsea. However, no formal bid has been made and the club's priority remains finding a short-term or long-term solution to fill the void left by Saliba.

The Gunners have been active in the transfer window but have so far not added a senior centre-back. With the new Premier League season fast approaching, Arteta will be keen to resolve this issue quickly.

Saliba's injury is a major setback for a team that prides itself on defensive solidity. The Frenchman has been a cornerstone of Arsenal's backline since his return from a loan spell at Marseille.

What happens next

Arsenal will likely make a decision on Saliba's treatment in the coming days. If surgery is required, the club's recruitment team will accelerate their search for a replacement. The coming week will be crucial for Arteta's summer plans.