Real Madrid aim to beat Chelsea for Arsenal's Cole

Real Madrid could trump Chelsea for Arsenal left-back Ashley Cole.

The Spanish giants see Cole as an ideal replacement for the ageing Roberto Carlos and believe they can land him for £20million this summer.

Real hope to take advantage of the tap-up controversy by stealing in and nicking Cole from under the noses of Chelsea.

A Real insider told The Sun: "Real Madrid have followed Cole's progress for some time - before even his outstanding performances at Euro 2004.

"He is exactly what the club is looking for to step into Roberto Carlos' boots."

Real feared the racist abuse aimed at Cole during England's friendly against Spain in Madrid last November would see him rule out a move to the Bernabeu.

But the player - who has suspended contract talks with Arsenal while the Chelsea probe takes place - could at some stage feel that staying at Highbury is not an option.