Laurent Koscielny signs new Arsenal deal

Laurent Koscielny

Arsenal defender Laurent Koscielny has agreed a new “long-term” contract, ending speculation over his future.

The 26-year-old centre back had been linked with a move to Catalan giants Barcelona, but the France international has opted to remain at the Emirates Stadium.

"I'm delighted to have reached agreement with the club,” Koscielny told the club’s website. “I have had a fantastic time here and look forward to an exciting future with Arsenal."

The news comes as a boost for the Gunners, who are poised to lose their captain Robin van Persie this summer following his admission that he will not be renewing his contract.

Winger Theo Walcott is also yet to sign a new deal, with less than 12 months remaining on his contract.

Koscielny experienced a mixed first season with Arsenal after joining the club in July 2010, but excelled last season and went on to establish his place in the France national team for the first time in his career.

"Laurent has been outstanding for us over the last two seasons,” Arsenal boss Arsène Wenger commented. “When you consider that until 2009 he was playing in Ligue 2 in France and that he is now performing at the very top level in the Premier League and for his country, the development that he has shown has been absolutely exceptional.”

He added: “Laurent is a top-class player and I am very pleased he has decided to commit his future to the club."

Meanwhile, it’s been reported that Arsenal have agreed personal terms with talented Spain winger Santi Cazorla, and are ready to bring the 27-year-old to north London if Málaga accept a £15.6million offer.

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