Aston Villa are preparing to open contract negotiations with central defenders Ezri Konsa and Pau Torres, according to the Daily Mail. Discussions could commence before the new Premier League season kicks off on August 23, when Villa travel to Brighton.
Both players have two years remaining on their current contracts. However, UEFA's financial constraints may make it more feasible for Villa to secure new terms with their existing squad members rather than seeking replacements in the transfer market.
Age and Value Considerations
The report highlights that Konsa, aged 28, and Torres, who is nine months older, would be difficult to sell for a significant fee. This factor further encourages the club to extend their stays rather than pursue external options.
Despite this, upgrading the pair is not an urgent priority. Konsa and Torres have started together 95 times since Torres joined from Villarreal in 2023, including every minute of the Europa League quarter-final, semi-final, and final ties last season except the final two minutes.
Torres and Emery Connection
Torres has made 109 appearances since Unai Emery brought him to the Premier League, while Konsa is among the players Emery has utilized most throughout his managerial career.
Speaking to Marca in March, Torres commented on his current deal, which runs until 2028: “We're achieving good things, and that's the plan. To keep playing in the Premier League, to keep playing in Europe. I think it's something that brings me positive things, and I see myself there until the end of my contract.”
Konsa's International Duty
Konsa, who joined Villa in 2019, last signed a new contract in 2023, also with two years remaining. He is currently away with England at the World Cup under Thomas Tuchel and has been linked with a move to Arsenal in recent weeks. Torres was not selected for the Spain squad.
The question remains: Should Villa offer Konsa and Torres new deals?
