In an official statement on the club’s official website confirming the deal, executive board chairman, Claus Horstmann admitted that Koln had offered the player new “competitive” terms on his contract, but with just one year left on his current deal, a transfer was best for the team.
Horstmann said: “We deeply regret his step, which is not a decision against [the club] but for the good of his own career. Koln were prepared to extend Lukas Podolski's contract on the basis of a competitive offer.
“Nonetheless, this early transfer decision offers scope and planning security for the next season. We will jump at this opportunity to reinvest these transfer earnings back into our team's quality and into the promotion of our youth squads.
“Lukas has helped the club in many difficult situations, Lukas has left a mark on Koln's reputation and we feel the need to thank him for numerous great football experiences at Koln.”
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LUKAS PODOLSKISTRIKER | KOLN
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ARSENAL TO END TROPHY DROUGHT? |
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"We are happy to have made this signing early and we are looking forward to watching Lukas contribute at the European Championships over the summer, a level where he has already made 95 caps at the age of 26. That is a phenomenal record and just shows his quality as a player.”
"Podolski....great signing! Top player! To have that many appearances for Germany you have to be half decent!"
- Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere |
“I have made this decision not against Koln but for this great opportunity and the good of my own individual development.
“This was not an easy decision for me at all, as Koln, our fans and the city are something special for me.
“I will always carry Koln in my heart. We need to pool our strengths now and have to be fully focussed on our survival in the Bundesliga.”
The striker, who has notched 43 goals in just 95 games for the Germain international side, spoke of his delight at joining Arsenal on the club's official website: "I’m so happy to be joining Arsenal and to play in the Premier League. Arsenal is one of the top clubs in Europe with a huge history.
"There are many top quality players at Arsenal and the style of football which the team plays is fantastic. I’m proud to become an Arsenal player and am looking forward to playing my first match at Emirates Stadium and doing my best for all the Arsenal fans."
Podolski will stay at Koln for the remainder of the campaign to help their ongoing fight against relegation before moving to England.
Source- http://www.goal.com/en/news/9/england/2012/04/30/3070752/arsenal-sign-lukas-podolski