French media outlet TF1 Is reporting that Laurent Koscielny is close to signing a contract extension with Arsenal which will keep him at the club until 2017.

Koscielny, who was one of Arsenal’s top performer’s last year and one of the best centrebacks in the Premier League, had been attracting the attention of Barcelona due to his strong performances.

Signed from Lorient in 2010, the Frenchman has made 63 appearances for Arsenal and managed to find the net on four occasions. On signing for Arsenal Kos said

“I’m very excited to be joining Arsenal. They are one of the biggest teams in Europe with many great players. I’m really looking forward to playing in the English Premier League and the Champions League with my new club. Also, in Arsène Wenger, Arsenal has one of the best managers in the world and I can’t wait to work with him and do my best for the Arsenal supporters.”

He endured a tough first season in the Premier League as he adapted but had no such problems during his second season.  Koscielny was called up to the French side to win his first cap at the start of 2011 and until he played for France had been eligible to play for Poland.

At just 26 years old, he is expected to be a mainstay in Arsenal’s backline for many years to come.