Tottenham Hotspur has emerged as a serious contender in the race to sign the 28-year-old Aston Villa defender, Ezri Konsa, an England international known for his versatility. He’s able to play as a centre-back or right-back, and has been in impressive form this season, contributing to Villa’s solid defensive record under Unai Emery.
So why are Tottenham interested?
Spurs are actively monitoring Konsa as part of their plans for defensive reinforcements ahead of the January transfer window. Reports suggest Spurs view him as a potential upgrade for depth and competition at the back, especially with ongoing injury concerns for players like Micky van de Ven.
Where did the tale come from?
The story broke widely on October 26, with multiple football news accounts amplifying reports from journalist Graeme Bailey. Fans and pundits are debating whether Konsa would be a “shrewd” addition for Spurs’ high-pressing style, though some question if he has the elite edge to displace current starters.
Does Thomas Frank actually need Konsa?
To be blunt, this sounds like one of those tales that might well have some truth woven into it, somewhere, but there’s little urgency right now. Last night, against Everton, Kevin Danso delivered his most assured performance in a Tottenham shirt yet. This night be one that returns in the summer, but for January, it surely is a hard pass, at this stage.
Add to which the fact that Villa have no intention of selling Ezri Konsa mid-season, valuing his role in their push for European qualification. His contract runs until 2027, so any move would likely require a hefty fee—estimates range from £50 to £60 million, based on his market value and past performances. It simply doesn’t look particularly appealing, unless yet another one of our superstars has gone down with an ACL injury.
Danso’s stats for last night have been all over the Internet after yesterday’s accomplished performance. His 18 clearances were altogether something else, in fact, the highest by any Tottenham player in a Premier League match since Jan Vertonghen’s 21 against Burnley in December 2016.
Add to this his duel success rate (6/6 won), with zero fouls committed, truly showcased his composure and physicality.
Pundit Jamie Redknapp hailed him as “immense” post-match, calling Tottenham’s £25 million investment a “bargain” in today’s market and proof that Danso has “proved he’s a top-class defender.”
Earlier in September, he and Cristian Romero exchanged positive messages ahead of a Europa League clash with Villarreal, signalling his growing integration with the squad. At this rate, applications to join our backline will be few and far between.