Real Madrid Eyeing A Move For Arsenal Defender Koscielny

Arsenal FC defender Laurent Koscielny has drawn interest from Real Madrid, who are reportedly lining up a bid for the center back.

The 29-year-old defender has been one of the most consistent performers for the Gunners in the last two seasons. Questions were raised when Arsene Wenger bought him from Lorient in 2010, but five years from then, Koscielny is now regarded as one of the best center backs in Europe and is subject of interest from Real Madrid.

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According to AS (and other Spanish medias) , new Real Madrid manager Rafael Benitez is keen to bring the French international to Bernab u. The Spanish club are engaged in a transfer battle with Manchester United at the moment, with their interest in signing David De Gea. But the Red Devils have set their eyes on Sergio Ramos in return.

Reports suggest that Real Madrid have already turned down a substantial bid from Manchester United for the Spanish defender. But Los Blancos are preparing for alternatives and have earmarked Koscielny as a possible replacement for Ramos. The Spaniard is reportedly unhappy with his treatment at the club, and feels he is not valued enough. The De Gea a Ramos transfer saga is unlikely to end anytime soon.

Despite Real Madrida s speculated interest Arsenal are unlikely to sell the French international, who only recently signed a new contract with the club. The center back has already made over 200 appearances for the club and his partnership with Per Mertesacker has helped the Gunners secure two back to back FA Cup titles. Arsene Wenger values Koscielny as one of the most important player in his side and he is unlikely to entertain any offer him, especially with his team finally looking strong enough to post a sustainable title challenge.

The Spanish club will test Arsenala s resilience with their bid though. Interestingly, the valuation of Real Madrida s bid is different according to different sources. While Telegraph insists that the bid will be of A?21 million, AS are quoting a bid of a 28m and according to Sport, it is a 17m.