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Arsenal forward Lukas Podolski looks on his way to Turkey after reports emerged of the club agreeing a move for the player.
Podolski spent half of last season on loan with Inter Milan but the player failed to make much of an impact at the club and Mancini and co. weren’t convinced enough to retain his services. Podolski will be an asset to have in the squad, but the German international insisted that he will only stay with the Gunners if he were to get regular football.
“I can’t make any claims. I am under contract at Arsenal,” the 30-year-old told kicker. “I have not talked to Arsenal yet, but if I return I want to play. I won’t sit on the bench or in the stands.”
Arsenal have better players in his position for the first team and him staying at Arsenal is not benefitting either parties so it made sense that Arsene Wenger told him he was free to look for other clubs.
According to reports in Turkey, Podolski is all set for a move to Galatasaray. The Turkish club are believed to have put forward a three-year deal worth A?2.2million-per-season and a A?1.4million transfer fee for the former Bayern Munich player.
Premier League side Everton were reported to be interested in a move for the player but they look to have been beaten by Galatasaray. Podolski would have been an ideal signing for Roberto Martinez, whose side would have benefitted from his experience and quality. The German was available for a measly fee and would have got first team football at Goodison Park.
Podolski joined Arsenal in the summer of 2012 and has netted 19 times in his 81 Premier League appearances for Gunners.