Barcelona are ready to test Arsenal's resolve for Laurent Koscielny.

AS says Barca coach Tito Vilanova sees the Frenchman as a better prospect than PSG defender Thiago Silva. Vilanova fears the wages demanded by Thiago Silva to move to Barca would disrupt dressing room harmony.

Koscielny's agent has confirmed Barca's interest in the last 24 hours.

The Spanish champs are now stepping up their pursuit of a new defensive signing after closing their deal for Santos star Neymar.