Laurent Koscielny is set to join Bordeaux from Arsenal, according to reports.

The French defender has been granted his wish to return to France following a nine-year spell at the Emirates Stadium.

The former club captain caused controversy last month when he refused to travel to the United States for Arsenal’s pre-season tour.

Koscielny hoped that his decision would put pressure on the club to sell him in the final year of his contract.

And the 33-year-old looks to have got his way as Bordeaux close in on a £4.6-million deal, according to the Telegraph.

Unai Emery tried to persuade Koscielny to stay put for another campaign, but the former Lorient man was determined to return to Ligue 1.