Villa have seen a £20 million offer rejected as they search for a replacement for departing defender Ezri Konsa, according to reports.
The club’s recruitment team has been busy identifying defensive targets this summer, with Konsa’s exit leaving a significant gap in Unai Emery’s backline.
Konsa established himself as one of the Premier League’s most reliable centre-backs during his time at Villa Park, earning recognition at international level with England.
His departure has left Villa under pressure to bring in quality cover and competition, with the club competing across multiple fronts including European football.
The £20 million bid represents a serious statement of intent from Villa’s hierarchy, demonstrating their willingness to invest in defensive reinforcements without delay.
However, the club that received the offer has firmly rejected the approach, suggesting they value their player at a considerably higher figure than Villa’s opening proposal.
Such rejections at this stage of a transfer window are common, with selling clubs typically holding firm in early negotiations to drive up the final fee.
Villa will likely need to return with an improved offer if they are serious about securing their primary defensive target ahead of the upcoming season.
Emery has shown throughout his tenure at Villa Park that he prioritises defensive solidity as a foundation for the team’s style of play.
The Spaniard has consistently demanded high-quality options across the defensive line, making the Konsa replacement hunt one of the most pressing matters of the transfer window.
Villa’s scouting network has been active across Europe in recent months, identifying targets who can match both the physical and technical demands of playing in Emery’s system.
The club’s ownership group has shown a willingness to back the manager with funds in previous windows, and there is little reason to expect that approach to change now.
Whether Villa return with a higher bid or pivot to alternative targets remains to be seen, but the need for defensive reinforcement is clear and urgent.
