Ezri Konsa absent vs PSG as Unai Emery addresses Arsenal transfer links

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has confirmed Ezri Konsa will miss Wednesday night's UEFA Super Cup clash against Paris Saint-Germain, insisting the defender's absence has nothing to do with growing transfer interest from Arsenal.

Konsa has emerged as one of Arsenal's leading defensive targets ahead of Deadline Day, but the England international will not feature in Salzburg after being granted additional time off following the World Cup.

Villa will also be without Emiliano Martinez and Ollie Watkins for the meeting between last season's Europa League and Champions League winners.

Speaking ahead of the Super Cup, Emery dismissed any suggestion that Konsa's omission was linked to speculation over his future.

Instead, the Spaniard confirmed the defender is still on an extended post-World Cup break alongside Martinez and Watkins.

"They are not here because they finished the season on July 19 and I gave them four weeks to rest and it is completely necessary."

Although Emery acknowledged Villa would benefit from having the trio available, he pointed out that Paris Saint-Germain are also managing several players returning late from international duty.

"Of course, if they were here, maybe we will have many more chances, but at the same time, I think PSG will be in same situation as us.

"We will prepare the game with players, even some young players, like we started with four weeks ago. Of course they are favourites."

Konsa remains firmly on Arsenal's shortlist as Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen his defence before the transfer window closes.

The Gunners are seeking additional cover following injuries to William Saliba and Jurrien Timber, but Villa's reported £60 million valuation is currently proving to be a significant obstacle.

Arsenal have also been linked with Tottenham Hotspur captain Cristian Romero, although the Argentina international is reportedly expected to join Atletico Madrid, with Spurs unwilling to sell to their North London rivals.

Following Arsenal's pre-season defeat to Borussia Dortmund, Arteta confirmed the club remain active in the transfer market.

"Well that's what we're trying to do.

"If we have the right player in the market to make us much better, we are very looking forward to that."

Those comments suggest Arsenal will continue exploring defensive reinforcements before the summer window closes, with Konsa remaining one of the club's primary targets.

Arsenal are expected to continue assessing defensive options before the transfer window closes, with Konsa remaining a player of interest if Villa's asking price becomes more achievable. Meanwhile, the England international is set to return to Aston Villa training after completing his extended summer break.