Real Madrid advanced in deal to sign Arsenal defender Laurent Koscielny

Real Madrid are ready to launch a £21million raid for Arsenal defender Laurent Koscielny.

The La Liga giants have targeted the Frenchman following the breakdown in negotiations over a new deal for Sergio Ramos.

Manchester United have registered their interest in the Spain international who has two years left on his contract.

But Arsenal will fight to keep 29-year-old Koscielny who remains a key member of their defence and signed a new long-term contract last year.

The former Lorient centre-back moved to north London in 2010 and has become one of the best centre-backs in Europe in that time.

Meanwhile Lukas Podolski believes he made a mistake moving to Inter Milan on loan last season and thinks he could yet make an impact next season at Arsenal.

Turkish champions Galatasaray want to sign him but Podolski said: “English football is the one which best suits my style, but I know how suddenly everything can change, it was a mistake to go to Inter with no redemption clauses.

“But now I’m looking forward. I’ve always felt comfortable [at Arsenal].”