Podolski Free To Decide As Arsenal Rumours Circle

Cologne have commented on the rumours surrounding Lukas Podolski, with the club admitting they will respect the striker's decision over his future, as speculation surrounds a possible agreement with Arsenal.

Today a report from German paper Bild claimed that Podolski had already made a provisional agreement to move to the Emirates in the summer, with a fee of €18 million being discussed.

And while Arsenal are unlikely to comment on the report, Cologne coach Stale Solbakken has revealed that he is unaware of any concrete offers, but will respect the star's decision on his future.

"Lukas' decision is important for us all, but also for him. We must respect this," he told SID.

"I know a little more than you. I know a lot, but for me it is important that he has everything under control and can concentrate on the upcoming games.

"Podolski is a Cologne player at the moment and we know that he will be here until the end of the season. Then we will have to see what happens."

Podolski has been involved in 63% of Cologne's goals this season, with the hitman scoring 15 goals and providing four assists for the side.

He was firmly on Arsenal's radar in preparation for January, but the Gunners chose to make a loan move for Thierry Henry instead.

And with the north London side looking likely to go yet another season without a trophy, this could be the transfer window that Arsenal fans have been waiting for, if the Bild report is accurate.