Manchester United have been urged to consider a move for Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa, with Alan Pardew believing the England international could be an ideal addition for Michael Carrick.
Ezri Konsa has become one of the more reliable defenders in the Premier League since joining Villa from Brentford in 2019. He has now made 286 appearances for the club and was part of the side that won the Europa League last season.
Manchester United could certainly do with more options at centre-back, and Alan Pardew believes Konsa has several qualities that would make him a strong fit at Old Trafford.
Pardew compares Ezri Konsa to Steve Bruce
Speaking on talkSPORT, Pardew was quick to praise the Villa defender and suggested Manchester United should take the opportunity to bring him in.
“Konsa has been mentioned with a couple of clubs. What a signing he would be for Manchester United,” Pardew said.
The former Premier League manager then compared Konsa’s qualities to those of former United captain Steve Bruce, particularly when it comes to his threat from set pieces.
“A centre-back who can pass, who’s dominant in the air, gets you a goal from a set piece, just like Steve Bruce.”
That’s an interesting comparison for United supporters. Bruce wasn’t just valued for his defensive work. His goals also became an important part of United’s success, and Pardew sees some similarities in what Konsa could bring.
Villa, however, won’t make a deal easy. Arsenal have already seen an initial £30 million bid rejected and Villa are reportedly holding out for around £60m.
Konsa has two years remaining on his current contract, giving Villa a strong position in any negotiations.
Alan Pardew warns United against Romero
Pardew also discussed another defender who has been linked with Premier League clubs, Cristian Romero, and made it clear that he wouldn’t advise Carrick to pursue the Tottenham defender.
“If I were Michael Carrick, I would stay well away from it [Cristian Romero].”
His concerns are largely about Romero’s temperament and what he could bring into a dressing room.
“That’s why big Premier League clubs left him alone. He’s a volatile character who brings problems to your dressing room.”
Pardew believes managers have to think beyond a player’s ability when making a major signing.
“You look at external things as a manager. When you are bringing in a big player, who’s a World Cup winner, into your team, you have to understand what that player is about.”
He added: “Well he’s a volatile and an aggressive player who demands very great things, so you have to manage him very carefully.”
The problem is the price. Villa’s £60m valuation is massive, but with United preparing for a season involving the Champions League and domestic competitions, adding a proven Premier League defender could prove game changing.
Ezri Konsa has already established himself at the highest level in England. Alan Pardew now believes it’s time for United to take notice.
