Tottenham and Manchester City are among several top Premier League clubs monitoring one of England’s standout defenders ahead of the 2026 window.
Tottenham Hotspur are reported to be in the market for a centre-back in 2026, with a marquee signing said to be on Spurs’ radar.
It is not entirely surprising, given Thomas Frank’s current options at the back, with injuries keeping Radu Dragusin, Cristian Romero, and Kota Takai out of action.
Spurs need more options in defence, and a new report has linked them with a Premier League defender who is also attracting attention from Manchester City.
Tottenham and Manchester City monitoring Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa
According to TBR Football, Tottenham are understood to be assessing their options in central defence ahead of 2026, and are among the clubs who admire Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa.
Manchester City are also believed to be showing interest in the England international, who has become an integral figure in Unai Emery’s side.
Konsa’s ability to play both at centre-back and full-back is another factor that appeals to City, with his versatility viewed as a key strength.
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But it is not just Spurs and City who are monitoring the defender, as the report reveals that Chelsea, Liverpool, and Manchester United have also watched Konsa at various points over the last 12 months.
Interest in Ezri Konsa extends beyond the Premier League
Interest in Konsa is not limited to England, with Italian sides Inter Milan and Napoli, along with RB Leipzig, all said to be keeping tabs on the 28-year-old.
Aston Villa are, however, unwilling to part ways with one of their key players. Yet with PSR concerns lingering over the Birmingham-based club, there is a belief among rival sides that some names could be lured away from Villa Park, and Konsa is viewed as one of the most attainable.
Speaking on the situation, transfer insider Graeme Bailey confirmed that Konsa’s name is increasingly being mentioned in club circles.
He said, “Ezri Konsa’s name is coming up quite a lot when you talk to clubs about potential defensive options.
“Clearly, Villa do not want to sell but he has just over two years left on his deal, he is now one of England’s top defenders, and Villa are likely going to have to tie him down to a new deal.
“Konsa is a nailed-on Premier League performer who is now showing it at international level. It is not a shock to me that some very big clubs are keeping an eye on him.”