Aston Villa target Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo to replace Ezri Konsa

Aston Villa have identified Chelsea centre-back Tosin Adarabioyo as one of their potential replacements for Arsenal-bound Ezri Konsa, with Unai Emery's side preparing for a major change in defence.

According to Sky Sports insider Lyall Thomas, the 28-year-old Chelsea defender is among several centre-backs being considered at Villa Park.

Villa's search has accelerated with Konsa closing in on a move to Arsenal. The Gunners have reportedly agreed an initial £51m deal plus add-ons for the England international after spending much of the summer trying to negotiate Villa down from their £60m valuation.

Losing Konsa would leave a significant hole in Villa's defence.

The England international has made more than 200 Premier League appearances for Aston Villa and developed into one of their most dependable defenders.

Villa are therefore assessing several possible replacements, with Tosin now firmly on their radar.

Chelsea are reportedly prepared to listen to offers for the centre-back, potentially giving Villa an opportunity to move quickly once Konsa's departure is completed.

Tosin's Premier League experience would be particularly useful. Rather than signing another defender who needs time to adapt to English football, Villa could bring in someone already accustomed to the physical and tactical demands of the competition.

Villa are not alone in monitoring the Chelsea defender.

Marseille, Benfica and Sevilla are also credited with interest, meaning Villa could face competition if they decide to turn their interest into a formal proposal.

Chelsea's willingness to consider offers could nevertheless make negotiations relatively straightforward if their valuation is met.

For Villa, much may depend on how they decide to reinvest the money received for Konsa.

Their defensive options already include experienced players over the age of 30 alongside a recently signed 21-year-old, making the addition of another established centre-back a logical priority.

Tosin, at 28, would provide experience while still being at an age where he could become an important part of Emery's defence for several seasons.

Arsenal's pursuit of Konsa has progressed significantly after earlier negotiations threatened to stall.

The Premier League champions initially made an offer of around £30m, considerably below Villa's £60m valuation.

Arsenal refused to meet that asking price in full, but a compromise has now reportedly been reached at £51m upfront plus additional payments.

Konsa's versatility has been a major attraction for Mikel Arteta.

With William Saliba currently injured, the England defender can immediately provide cover in central defence. He can also operate at right-back, where Jurrien Timber is unavailable.

Konsa also arrives with international pedigree after playing an important role in England's run to the 2026 World Cup semi-finals.

Villa's immediate priority will be completing the Konsa situation before deciding how aggressively to move for a replacement.

Tosin offers Premier League experience and could potentially be available if Chelsea receive an acceptable proposal, but competition from elsewhere in Europe means Villa may need to act quickly.

Would Tosin Adarabioyo be a strong replacement for Ezri Konsa at Aston Villa, or should Emery target another defender? Have your say.