Arsenal transfer news: Laurent Koscielny will stay 'for now' at Emirates despite interest from Bayern Munich - will Huguain join him?
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Defender Laurent Koscielny has again reaffirmed his commitment to Arsenal - and believes the Gunners can use their superb end to last season as a springboard for success in 2013/2014.
Koscielny, 27, impressed alongside Per Mertesacker at the heart of the Arsenal defence over a 10-match unbeaten run in the Barclays Premier League which saw them overall rivals Tottenham to snatch fourth place and secure another shot at the Champions League.
The France international has found himself linked with a summer move away from the Emirates Stadium, with European champions Bayern Munich touted as a possible destination.
However, the defender maintains his current focus is completely with the Gunners.
Speaking to French regional newspaper La Montagne, Koscielny said: "I have four-year contract. For now, I am still at Arsenal."
The Gunners recorded a memorable victory over Bayern in the Allianz Arena in March, where Koscielny scored the second goal of a 2-0 win in their Champions League last 16 second-leg clash. Although it was not enough to secure qualification, it restored belief and kickstarted Arsenal's brilliant end to the campaign, with eight out of 10 victories.
Koscielny hopes his team can take that confidence into the new campaign, which will see them play a crucial Champions League qualifier in August.
"The second leg of the Champions League against Bayern Munich was a trigger for us," he added. "In the process, we almost won everything.
"The most important thing is that Arsenal is in the Champions League. It is super exciting to play against the best teams in Europe."
Arsenal are expected to strengthen the squad this summer, with Real Madrid's £25million-rated forward Gonzalo Higuain high on the watchlist of manager Arsene Wenger.
The club are set to confirm the arrival of Yaya Sanogo on a free transfer when the France under-21 attacker's contract with Auxerre expires on July 1.
PA
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments