Real Madrid Prepare Summer Move for Arsenal Defender Laurent Koscielny - Report

Real Madrid are reportedly interested in signing Arsenal defender Laurent Koscielny during the upcoming transfer window.

The Daily Express reported that the Spanish giants' manager Carlo Ancelotti had lost faith in Pepe and was lining up the Frenchman as his replacement.

The former Chelsea boss is looking at the 28-year-old centre-back in order to partner him with Sergio Ramos in his back four for the upcoming campaign.

Ancelotti has only one other recognised central defender at his disposal in Raphael Varane. Hence, an injury to any of his star players is likely to have adverse effects on their results. The Italian wants to prevent any such turmoil from occurring and plans to significantly bolster his squad in defence as well as attack.

The 28-year-old joined the Gunners in 2010 and went on to establish himself at the heart of Arsenal's back four.

Koscielny has been one of their best defenders this season, establishing a formidable partnership with Per Mertesacker, making 31 Premier League starts so far.

The pair have also been instrumental in the north London club's progress in the FA Cup final and ending their nine-year trophy drought this month.

Koscielny had signed a new five-year contract in 2012 and there are over three years remaining in his current deal. This could force Madrid to shell out an exorbitant amount to convince Arsenal to sell one of their consistent performers.

Meanwhile, Arsenal are still unclear about Bacary Sagna's future, as the full-back is yet to agree an extension beyond the end of the current campaign.

Wenger's deal too expires in the summer but he has confirmed that he will be extending his stay at the Emirates and is likely to sign the extension in the coming weeks.

The Gunners' boss will surely not consider losing one of his stellar players as he looks to make additions to his side in order to mount a tougher challenge for silverwares next season.

Per Mertesacker, Aaron Ramsey, Santi Cazorla and Tomas Rosicky have all committed their future to Arsenal by agreeing new improved deals in the last few months.

Koscielny too is expected to follow suit and the Daily Mail has reported that the Gunners officials had initiated talks with the defender and his representatives.

The report also suggests that Manchester United, Chelsea, Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain are all keeping tabs on the Frenchman's ongoing negotiations; waiting to pounce on the opportunity if there is a breakdown.