England U-21 reunites with old boss at Villa Park

Aston Villa boss Dean Smith has raided former club Brentford for young English defender Ezri Konsa.

The 21-year-old joins Villa for an undisclosed free, which is reportedly the £12m stipulated as the buyout clause in Konsa's contract with Brentford. 

Konsa made 47 appearances for the Bees after a £2.5m move from Charlton in 2018. The talented defender has made six appearances for England Under-21s scoring one goal.  

Since their promotion from the Championship, Villa have been active in the transfer market and Konza follows Tyrone Mings, Kortney Hause, Anwar El-Ghazi, Matt Targett, Wesley and another of Smith's former Brentford players Jota through the door at Villa Park.

Talking about Konsa's capture, Smith said:

"He's a high-potential player who I believe can step up to the Premier League and I'm really looking forward to working with him again."

Villa kick off their season with a Premier League clash away at Tottenham on 10 August.

Proud to sign for @AVFCOfficial. It’s always been a dream to play in the Premier League and this wouldn’t have been possible without God, my family and my friends. Thanks to the fans for the amazing welcome. I can’t wait to get started! #AVFC pic.twitter.com/93b4PHH82e

— Ezri Konsa (@Ekonsa15) July 11, 2019