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Sources: Liverpool & Man City keeping close eye on 28-year-old England international

Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa could be at the centre of one of the Premier League’s biggest defensive transfer sagas this January.

The 28-year-old has been a model of consistency for Unai Emery’s side and is now attracting interest from several of England’s elite clubs.

Having also broken into the England national team setup, Konsa’s reputation has soared over the past year, making him one of the most reliable and composed centre-backs in English football. The defender has 16 caps for the national team.

Konsa’s performances have been pivotal to Aston Villa’s strong defensive record under Emery.

Liverpool & Man City among clubs monitoring Ezri Konsa

Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur, and Manchester City are among the clubs monitoring his situation closely, sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside.

Liverpool were previously interested in Konsa during the summer window but opted not to make a formal bid. With their pursuit of Marc Guehi becoming complicated due to Crystal Palace’s high valuation, Konsa has re-emerged as a more achievable target.

Meanwhile, Tottenham are eager to bolster their defensive depth, particularly given Cristian Romero’s inconsistent fitness record, while Manchester City are keeping tabs as they plan ahead for long-term squad rotation and potential future exits.

Several other clubs, including Chelsea, West Ham United, Newcastle United, and Crystal Palace, have also shown interest.

Chelsea are rebuilding their defensive options after injuries to key players, while West Ham and Newcastle are exploring consistent options for their backline.

Aston Villa might have to sell due to financial reasons

Ezri Konsa of Aston Villa
Ezri Konsa of Aston Villa (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

Aston Villa, however, remain reluctant sellers. Konsa’s contract runs until June 2028, giving the club leverage in negotiations.

Yet, Villa’s need to comply with PSR regulations could force their hand. Selling a homegrown player would represent pure profit in accounting terms, a crucial factor for clubs seeking to balance their financial books.

Villa reportedly value Konsa between £40 million and £45 million, a figure that reflects both his experience and his importance to the team.

While Aston Villa will do everything possible to retain one of their most dependable performers, financial realities may dictate otherwise.

Report: Liverpool prepared to pay over £100 million for “the next big thing”

The post Sources: Liverpool & Man City keeping close eye on 28-year-old England international appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Sources: January exit is likely for 24-year-old Man United star struggling at Old Trafford

Joshua Zirkzee’s Manchester United future is heading for a decisive moment.

The Dutch striker has struggled for minutes under Rúben Amorim this season, squeezed further to the fringes by the arrivals of Matheus Cunha, Benjamin Šeško, and Bryan Mbeumo.

With the 2026 World Cup fast approaching, Zirkzee knows that regular club football is essential to stay in the Netherlands frame.

Joshua Zirkzee wants immediate solution

The striker wants a solution in the January transfer window with a move away from Old Trafford highly likely, sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside.

The club, meanwhile, are looking to cash in, with an asking price in the €35-40 million range.

United hold advantage at the moment with the player contracted to the club till June 2029.

Zirkzee has made five appearances for the Red Devils so far this season.

West Ham United have already made initial contact to test the waters and understand the financials.

West Ham United could present him the opportunity to revive his career and stay in the Premier League.

Another Premier League club interested in the Dutchman is Brighton, however, competition for minutes will be more intense there.

Aston Villa admire Zirkzee’s profile as depth behind their first-choice options, with European fixtures adding to the minutes available.

Italy, however, may be the most compelling arena. Roma want a loan due to Financial Fair Play constraints, proposing to cover wages with an option to revisit a fee in the summer.

Serie A clubs to compete for the signing of Man United star

Joshua Zirkzee of Man United warming up
Joshua Zirkzee of Man United warming up (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

Both Juventus and Milan are monitoring the situation, aware of Zirkzee’s Serie A pedigree from his impressive spell at Bologna.

Even ambitious Como, under Cesc Fàbregas, have entertained the idea of a marquee move, though the financials would be challenging for them.

Zirkzee looks increasingly likely to depart Old Trafford in search of more playing time and better opportunities.

A striker who was signed with high expectations and hope of a better future is now about to be shown the exit door at Man United.

Bruno Fernandes has a unique clause in his Man United contract that could facilitate his exit

The post Sources: January exit is likely for 24-year-old Man United star struggling at Old Trafford appeared first on CaughtOffside.

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