Strengthening: United close to signing a midfielder, Arsenal in talks for Konsa

Football giants are arming themselves just days before the Premier League season opener. Manchester United and Arsenal are on the verge of completing two major deals: Carlos Balba from Brighton is nearing a move to Old Trafford, while Ezri Konsa from Aston Villa is closing in on a switch to Arsenal.

According to Sky Sports, United is close to a full agreement with Brighton for the 22-year-old Balba. The player is expected to arrive in Manchester for medical examinations once final details are settled. The Red Devils have submitted an offer of £65 million — £60 million guaranteed plus £5 million in performance-related add-ons. Brighton, which previously demanded a fee closer to £100 million for the Cameroonian, is now open to a sale.

Currently, Balba is sidelined with an ankle ligament injury and is expected to miss another two to three weeks, but this has not deterred United. The midfielder joined Brighton from Lille in 2023 for approximately £23 million and has since become one of the most highly regarded young talents in the Premier League. Reports suggest a five-year contract is already prepared for him at Old Trafford.

Arsenal is also nearing a significant move. According to David Ornstein, the Gunners have accelerated talks with Aston Villa regarding Konsa, and the parties are nearing an agreement. The 28-year-old English defender has been on Arsenal's radar all summer. Villa values him at approximately £60 million, having rejected significantly lower bids earlier in the window. The gap between the clubs has now narrowed, and Arsenal is optimistic about completing the transfer.

Konsa has played for Aston Villa since 2019, establishing himself as a defensive pillar and a regular in the England national team. His versatility, playing both as a center-back and a right-back, makes him a perfect fit for an Arsenal squad looking to build on their championship season.