Arsenal captain Laurent Koscielny has refused to travel to the USA for the clubs pre-season tour.
The Frenchman has been linked with a return to his homeland, with Ligue 1 sides Lyon, Bordeaux and Rennes having all been linked with a move for the 33-year-old.
Arsenal, who are in desperate need of defensive reinforcements this summer, are keen to keep their veteran captain, although it is thought that the often calamitous figure of Shkodran Mustafi would be allowed to leave should they receive a suitable offer.
The Gunners are however keen to keep Koscielny, although with only one year remaining on his current deal, it is believed that he is keen to leave in order to secure a longer deal.
Laurent Koscielny has made more Premier League appearances for Arsenal (255) than any other player in the current squad.
Just three behind Thierry Henry and joint-11th overall. pic.twitter.com/roHqvMfu8Y
— Squawka (@Squawka) July 11, 2019
Now, with the club set to jet off to the United States for the start of their pre-season tour, Arsenal have confirmed that Koscielny has refused to travel.
“Laurent Koscielny has refused to travel to the US for our pre-season tour,” a statement on arsenal.com reads.
“We are very disappointed by Laurent’s actions, which are against our clear instructions.
“We hope to resolve this matter and will not be providing any further comment at this time.”
Arsenal are thought to have agreed a deal to sign William Saliba, although it is thought that he won’t arrive until 2020, with St Etienne demanding he returns to the club on loan for the upcoming season.
See also – Five of the best free transfers in Premier League history
