Transfer rumours: Arsenal return for Konsa as Liverpool eye Asencio

According to The Guardian's latest transfer round-up, Aston Villa are again facing a fight to keep one of their World Cup stars. Arsenal have reportedly stepped up their interest in England defender Ezri Konsa after having an initial bid rejected last month. The Daily Mail claims the Premier League champions are preparing a larger offer for Konsa, who is valued by Villa at a minimum of £60m.

Villa, meanwhile, are trying to strengthen at full-back. The club are said to be working on a £14m deal for Atlético Madrid's Italian left-back Matteo Ruggeri.

Liverpool are also being linked with defensive additions. According to Teamtalk, the Reds could move for Real Madrid centre-back Raúl Asencio, with the 23-year-old reportedly told he can leave the Bernabéu. Various intermediaries have apparently approached Liverpool about a potential move.

The same rumour mill puts PSG teenager Ibrahim Mbaye on the radar of Andoni Iraola, though the 18-year-old winger is also said to be keen on a move to Anfield. Mbaye scored a stunning goal for Senegal against France at the World Cup. As ever, these are rumours rather than done deals, and readers can find related match highlights on this site.