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Arsenal 'close on Podolski'

Image: Lukas Podolski: Striker has reportedly agreed a four-year deal to join Arsenal from Cologne

Arsenal have reportedly agreed a deal to sign Cologne striker Lukas Podolski at the end of the season.

Reports in Germany say striker set to quit Bundesliga

Arsenal have reportedly agreed a deal to sign Cologne striker Lukas Podolski at the end of the season. Widespread reports emanating from Germany suggest the Gunners have lined up a swoop to bring Podolski to the Emirates in the summer. The fee is believed to be in the region of £10.9million, with Podolski expected to sign a four-year contract in North London. Arsenal have yet to comment on the reports but the Gunners have been linked with a move for Podolski for the last few months as Arsene Wenger looks to bolster his attacking options for next season. Arsenal defender Per Mertesacker recently admitted his Germany team-mate has been asking him about life in the capital.

Very interested

"He has been very interested in the last few weeks and sent me a text message or two," Mertesacker told Sky Germany. "I just responded to him positively, we have a good club here and everyone here has a positive opinion of 'Poldi'." Despite being only 26, Podolski has a wealth of experience having made 95 appearances for Germany and played in two World Cups. Cologne have refused to confirm that Podolski will be leaving the club this summer, but it seems increasingly likely his next destination is set to be Arsenal.

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