Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has identified John Stones and Ezri Konsa as potential defensive reinforcements following William Saliba’s extended injury setback.
Saliba decided against undergoing surgery after suffering a back problem while representing France at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but the defender is expected to spend a significant period recovering.
Stones is currently available as a free agent after leaving Manchester City upon the expiration of his contract. The 32-year-old previously worked with Arteta during the Spaniard’s spell as Pep Guardiola’s assistant at City.
Konsa, who featured for England alongside Stones at the World Cup, still has two years remaining on his Aston Villa contract.
Both defenders also have the ability to operate as right-backs, providing Arteta with additional tactical options.
