Signing Ezri Konsa has an underrated bonus that makes it an even better deal for Arsenal

Arsenal are expected to complete the signing of Ezri Konsa from Aston Villa.

The 28-year-old will provide solid, immediate cover for the injured William Saliba, bolstering Mikel Arteta’s defensive options.

The England international has been high on Arsenal’s target list all summer, and though other alternatives were explored, it seems they have their man.

It’s not difficult to see how Konsa would fit in at the Emirates. He ticks all the boxes for Arteta: Premier League proven, good technically, and excellent in duels.

But aside from the direct tactical aspect, there is another bonus Arsenal achieve through the signing.

Arsenal play Aston Villa in their second fixture

Arsenal’s second Premier League game of the season is away at Aston Villa.

Villa Park has proven to be a tricky ground over the years for Arteta. It was one of the fixtures they lost last season, after an injury-time dagger from Emi Buendia.

But this summer, the Villa team that won the Europa League just a few months ago has been dismantled in the transfer market.

Morgan Rogers, of course, has left for Chelsea. Youri Tielemans to Manchester United. Lucas Digne to PSG. Speculation is rife around the futures of both Ollie Watkins and Emi Martinez.

And now, their best defender is Arsenal-bound.

All these exits and uncertainties create a state of transition for Unai Emery’s side.

Arsenal have to capitalise on that. Playing them at such an early point of the season, before they have their replacements lined up and bedded in, is such a key advantage.

They are getting one of the hardest fixtures out of the way early and playing them at a time where they’re nowhere near their strongest.

What is traditionally a very difficult trip to Birmingham should be considerably more manageable with Villa finding their feet.

It won’t be easy, obviously. But taking Konsa away from them and adding him to your team certainly makes it easier.