Arsenal Transfer News: Laurent Koscielny To Barcelona?

Barcelona are targetting Arsenal centre-half Laurent Koscielny in a surprise move to cure their defensive crisis, according to reports in France. New Barca boss Tito Vilanova is determined to cure last season's lack of numbers in defence which saw former boss Pep Guardiola forced to use Javier Mascherano and Sergio Busquets as emergency defenders. Most critics of Barcelona last season believe the lack of defensive options probably cost them the La Liga title and Champions League trophy last season, especially factoring in Gerard Pique's injury problems and Carles Puyol's age. We had heard a few days ago that Barca were looking at Chelsea duo Branislav Ivanovic and David Luiz but as they are on a limited budget may be priced out of moves for either man. They also looked at AC Milan star Thiago Silva (who looks set to join Paris Saint-Germain on a big money move) and also Arsenal defender Thomas Vermaelen but Koscielny, who has had a tough time of things in the Premier League since he joined from Lorient, is seen as attainable and a realistic target. The 26-year-old French defender is currently in talks with the Gunners over a new contract but may snub extension offers if Barcelona were to make a serious offer for his services.