Arsenal central defender Laurent Koscielny has quashed all rumors linking him to Barcelona and Bayern Munich, stating in no uncertain terms that he remains happy at the Emirates Stadium for more reasons than one.

The Gunners squad has returned to training this week, and Arsene Wenger will try and ensure the list of players who train henceforth, stay as part of the unit to help build the team spirit. A threat to that spirit were reports of one of Arsenal’s most consistent defenders last season being linked with a move away from the club in search of trophies. Wenger has been trying his level best to convince the current crop of players that the club’s fortunes will turn around, and heavy investment this summer will reap the rewards in the form of silverware.

Koscielny has developed a deep understanding in the centre of defense alongside German international Per Mertesacker, who has also now established his place in the team. The club were struggling halfway through last season, and were unsure of a qualifying place in the UEFA Champions League, but a strong defensive bond ensured minimal goals were conceded. Also, Theo Walcott’s newfound form, and Santi Cazorla’s creative skills helped the Gunners win the fourth place in the latter half of the season.

The 27-year old Koscielny made the switch to Arsenal from French club Lorient in 2010, for a fee in the region of £8-9 million. Munich have shown concrete interest earlier this summer, and despite having Naldo and Jerome Boateng at the back, new coach Pep Guardiola may see Koscielny as the backup he needs for the squad to survive the physical exertion of competing in multiple global competitions which could take their toll. Koscielny’s physical presence has been noticed by experts, and his aerial threat from set plays has become a key asset for the Gunners.

According to Metro, the Frenchman has grown frustrated at the rumors surrounding his future, and insisted that he is happy with Arsenal and the current four-year contract that he is under with the Gunners.

Koscielny said, “I feel very well at Arsenal. I am aware it’s a great club and I have a four-year contract,”

“I know there’s talk about me and Barcelona and Bayern, but people make their own conclusions.”

“The facts are simple: I have a contract at a club where I am happy. Full stop. We all know how situations change in football but I repeat that I’m not one to make castles in the sky.”

“I live in the moment, I seek nothing but to play the best I can.”

“In my mind my goal is to win trophies with Arsenal with whom I’m about to start pre-season training.”

“I’ve no ulterior motives. I’m at a healthy club, which plays beautiful football, has no debts, sticks to its own budget and plays in the Champions League. Not many players can say the same.”

Pretty unequivocal statements from Koscielny then – seems like he is a true Gunner which is excellent news for all Gooners.