Former Liverpool and Nottingham Forest striker Stan Collymore believes soon-to-be Arsenal defender Ezri Konsa is worth £60million, despite the Gunners agreeing a £51million deal for the England centre-half.
Collymore also shrugged off the idea of a Jack Grealish return, and claims on-loan winger Alejandro Garnacho will be of much better use to Villans boss Unai Emery.
He continued to say that Aston Villa can still act swiftly in the market to bring in new additions before deadline day on September 1.
Arsenal get Konsa at a cut-price
“In today’s market, £60million is entirely fair,” Collymore said in an exclusive interview with 10bet, referring to the two clubs’ transfer discussions over the defender initially.
“Konsa is a full England international, featured regularly at the World Cup, won a UEFA European trophy, and played a core role in Villa’s starting XI.
“Villa handle contract extensions proactively – much like they did with Morgan Rogers – to protect their financial position and meet PSR requirements.
“They have established a strong environment where players don’t feel desperate to force an exit.”
READ MORE: Transfer news: Arsenal and Aston Villa agree deal for Ezri Konsa
Grealish potential return
“No, I don’t think Jack is a good fit for Villa nowadays,” Collymore said regarding Grealish.
“I’m a huge fan of his, but Villa desperately need direct pace on the flanks.
“Evann Guessand left for Crystal Palace, Donyell Malen was sold to Roma after limited minutes, and Leon Bailey’s effectiveness has waned.
“Grealish’s game has evolved differently at Manchester City – he receives the ball wide, retains possession, and recycles it inside to central midfielders.
“Villa require direct wingers who can beat their man on the outside and drive to the byline.”
Garnacho an effective coup
“Garnacho brings raw pace and a point to prove under Emery,” Collymore said of the Chelsea outcast.
“I watched him dismantle Villa’s right flank from the stands at Stamford Bridge last season – beating Matty Cash repeatedly, cutting inside, and delivering low balls across the box.
“Furthermore, Emery maintains total authority over his squad dynamics.
“Bringing back a high-profile figure like Grealish would create constant media focus around his minutes and selection, which could disrupt the structure Emery has built.
“Villa have established themselves in elite European competition through tactical discipline, and Garnacho fits that dynamic much better at this stage.”
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