Arsenal make contact over Romero and Konsa as centre-back search intensifies

Arsenal are stepping up their efforts to sign a centre-back before the summer window closes, with sporting director Andrea Berta in direct contact with the representatives of Cristian Romero and Ezri Konsa. The Gunners want at least one more defensive signing to help them defend their Premier League title. Romero, 28, has been tipped for a Tottenham Hotspur exit and is said to be open to crossing north London, although Spurs are reluctant to strengthen a rival unless the Argentina international makes it clear he wants to join Mikel Arteta's side. Atletico Madrid and Barcelona are also monitoring the situation. Konsa has been on Arsenal's radar for several months after impressing at Aston Villa. An initial bid is reported to have been rejected, but Arsenal are ready to return with a fresh offer. Berta remains in strong contact with both camps, though no deal has been finalised for either player. The club already has Gabriel Magalhaes, William Saliba and Cristhian Mosquera as specialist centre-backs, with Ben White, Jurrien Timber, Riccardo Calafiori and Piero Hincapie also capable of playing centrally. Hincapie has joined permanently after a loan spell, while Bruno Guimaraes has completed his €87.5 million move from Newcastle United. Christos Tzolis and Illan Meslier have also arrived, with Tzolis replacing Leandro Trossard, who joined Besiktas, and Meslier expected to serve as third-choice goalkeeper after signing from Leeds United on a Bosman deal. Arsenal were also linked with Vinicius Junior, but the Brazilian has signed a contract extension at Real Madrid rather than move to the Emirates Stadium.