Liverpool Backed to Take Advantage of Club's PSR Issues and Sign "Excellent" England Ace

Liverpool FC is well-positioned to capitalize on Aston Villa's Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR) constraints by pursuing a swap deal for England international defender Ezri Konsa, according to former Reds striker Stan Collymore. With Liverpool sitting fourth in the Premier League, 14 points behind leaders Arsenal, and facing defensive uncertainties, Collymore proposes an audacious player exchange involving Ibrahima Konaté.[3][4][5]

Collymore highlights Villa's PSR pressures, which limit their spending despite a strong title challenge. He suggests Villa might accept Konaté plus cash for Konsa, addressing Liverpool's need for reliable homegrown talent as Virgil van Dijk nears the end of his career and Konaté's form has been inconsistent.[3][4] "Aston Villa have PSR issues that they need to address, so if they were to get a big fee for Konsa, they might have to consider it," Collymore told BetWright, via The Mirror.[3][4]

Meanwhile, Liverpool's owners have significant financial headroom despite a £450m summer spending spree on new signings under Arne Slot. Former Manchester City financial adviser Stefan Borson told Football Insider that PSR is not an issue, and shareholders could fund January deals if desired, though caution might prevail after heavy investment.[1] Sky Sports notes Liverpool could target a centre-back like Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace, who faces a contract expiry, but Villa's PSR woes make Konsa a pragmatic option amid accelerated plans for defensive reinforcements.[2]

Konaté's expiring contract adds intrigue, potentially lowering Villa's demands, though his elite aspirations could complicate matters. Collymore urges Liverpool to prioritize value in the transfer market, positioning Konsa as an "excellent" long-term solution for defensive stability.[3][4][5] This move aligns with Liverpool's January ambitions, including wingers and midfielders, as Mohamed Salah's future remains uncertain.[1][2]

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