Arsenal’s summer transfer plans have become increasingly urgent due to a serious fitness issue, highlighting the need for more defensive depth. The Gunners initially considered changes at right-back, including the potential sale of Ben White, but the injury to William Saliba has shifted priorities toward maintaining experienced defensive options.

Mikel Arteta is now on the lookout for a defender capable of covering both centre-back and right-back positions, ensuring that Arsenal remains strong during a demanding season in the Premier League and Champions League.

Key Points:

• Saliba’s injury alters transfer focus from replacing White to finding a versatile defender.
• Arsenal is likely to keep White and pursue a new defender to cover Saliba’s absence.
• Potential targets included Wesley from Roma, Iván Fresneda from Sporting CP, Nnamdi Collins from Eintracht Frankfurt, and Tino Livramento from Newcastle United.
• Ezri Konsa of Aston Villa has emerged as a viable option due to his ability to play both positions effectively.

Reports from The Times indicate that Saliba may need back surgery after aggravating a prior issue during France’s World Cup semi-final loss to Spain, which could sideline him at the start of the season. This situation has made the urgency for a versatile defender even more pressing.

Konsa’s experience in the Premier League and flexibility in defense make him an appealing candidate. Maintaining White's position is now deemed essential, as selling him could leave Arsenal vulnerable during Saliba’s anticipated lengthy recovery.

While pursuing Konsa, Arsenal must be cautious not to overpay, avoiding a panic premium due to Saliba’s injury. The ideal strategy involves keeping White, adding a versatile defender, and reassessing the squad once Saliba’s recovery timeline is clearer, thereby strengthening Arsenal without creating additional defensive issues later in the transfer window.