LONDON, United Kingdom (AFP)—Premier League champions Arsenal have signed England defender Ezri Konsa from Aston Villa in a deal worth a reported £51 million ($69 million).

Konsa agreed a “long-term contract” with the Gunners just hours before they start their title defence against Coventry on Friday.

The 28-year-old’s arrival gives Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta a major boost as he aims to lead the club to successive Premier League titles.

Konsa, who was a regular for England at the World Cup this year, will partner Gabriel Magalhaes at the heart of Arsenal’s defence in the absence of France international William Saliba, who is sidelined for several months with a back problem.

Konsa could make his debut against his former employers when Arsenal travel to Villa on August 31.

“It’s a privilege to be here and I can’t wait to get started,” Konsa said.

“I want to keep winning, I’m hungry to win and that’s what I’m here for. I’ll do everything in my power to continue bringing success to this club.

“It’s a proud moment for me and my family to play for one of the best teams in the world. A lot of emotions have gone through my head, but I think it will really kick in on the first match-day.”

Konsa is expected to be paraded before Arsenal fans ahead of Friday’s clash with Coventry in the opening game of the top-flight season at the Emirates Stadium.

“Ezri is a defender of high quality, whose athleticism, composure and tactical intelligence have established him as one of the Premier League’s most consistent performers,” Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta said.

“Being comfortable in both central defence and at right-back, Ezri will bring valuable versatility to our squad while maintaining the high defensive standards which are fundamental to our challenge of winning major trophies.”

With Jurrien Timber’s fitness also in question following a long-term groin problem, Arteta felt it was vital to land a defender before the transfer window closes on September 1.

Konsa joins Brazil midfielder Bruno Guimaraes and Greek winger Christos Tzolis as Arsenal’s main recruits since the club won their first English title for 22 years.