Premier League champions Arsenal have completed the signing of England defender Ezri Konsa from Aston Villa for a reported £51 million ($69 million), strengthening their defence ahead of the new season.   The 28-year-old has signed a long-term contract with Arsenal and is expected to play a key role in manager Mikel Arteta’s plans as the Gunners begin their title defence. Konsa is set to partner Gabriel Magalhaes in central defence following William Saliba’s lengthy absence with a back injury. Jurrien Timber’s fitness is also a concern after his long-term groin problem. The England international could make his Arsenal debut against his former club when the Gunners travel to Aston Villa on August 31. “It’s a privilege to be here and I can’t wait to get started,” Konsa said. “I want to keep winning, I’m hungry to win and that’s what I’m here for.” Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta praised Konsa’s quality, athleticism and tactical intelligence, while highlighting his ability to operate both at centre-back and right-back. The defender completed his medical at Arsenal’s London Colney training ground on Thursday before finalising the move. Konsa said conversations with Arsenal’s England players, including Noni Madueke, Eberechi Eze, Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka, helped convince him to join the Premier League champions. The defender joined Villa from Brentford in 2019 and made nearly 300 appearances for the club. He helped Villa win the Europa League last season and finish in the Premier League’s top four twice in the last three seasons. His departure comes during a significant period of change at Villa, with Youri Tielemans, Morgan Rogers and Lucas Digne also leaving the club during the close season. The signing is Arsenal’s latest major addition after the club won their first English league title in 22 years. The Gunners have also recruited Bruno Guimaraes and Christos Tzolis, while Piero Hincapie’s loan move from Bayer Leverkusen was made permanent.