Barcelona 'ready to turn to Arsenal defender Laurent Koscielny'

Barcelona will reportedly consider signing Laurent Koscielny from Arsenal as a short-term fix for their defensive problems.

The Catalans are currently having to make do without Samuel Umtiti and back-up option Thomas Vermaelen at the back because of injury, leaving just Clement Lenglet to partner Gerard Pique.

Rather than spending big on a new centre-back, Barca are understood to be after a cheaper alternative to fill in at the back if Umtiti struggles on his return from a long-term layoff.

Spanish outlet Marca suggests that Koscielny, who has not played since May 3 due to an Achilles injury, ticks the box for an experienced and cheap option in the January window.

Barca are said to be willing to offer the ex-France international an initial six-month deal, which will carry the option of an additional year come the end of the season.