This archive report was first published on 19 July 2019.
Laurent Koscielny, the 33-year-old Arsenal captain, is at the center of a bitter contract dispute with the club. The French defender has gone on strike, missing the team's US tour, and is now seeking legal advice.
According to sources, Koscielny's wages will be cut in half as part of a new contract offer from Arsenal. The club has proposed a deal that would see Koscielny's basic wage reduced, with performance incentives and bonuses making up the difference.
However, Koscielny and his representatives are unhappy with the proposal, claiming it would leave him out of pocket. The defender has only 12 months left on his current £100,000-a-week deal and is seeking a new contract that would see him earn more.
Arsenal are willing to offer Koscielny an extra year with the club, but only if he agrees to a guaranteed free transfer next summer. The club is also keen to sign a senior centre half, with Olympiacos defender Pape Abou Cisse and St Etienne's William Saliba on their radar.
Former Gunners boss Arsene Wenger has expressed his surprise at the situation, while current boss Unai Emery has highlighted the importance of giving young players a chance. Emery has praised the work of coach Freddie Ljungberg, who has been promoted from the under-23s to the first team.
