Arsene Wenger had 1.FC Köln striker Lukas Podolski watched on Friday night as he considers how to lift the considerable workload on Robin van Persie.
Dutchman Robin Van Persie will be given the first of a series of mini-breaks set out for him in tonight’s Carling Cup quarter-final against Manchester City.
Arsenal have monitored Podolski since the start of the campaign after the Germany international performed well against the Gunners in pre-season, and sent a scout to watch Köln’s 3-0 home loss to Borussia Mönchengladbach.
Wenger has also been alerted that Podolski’s contract expires in 2013 and, like Van Persie at Arsenal, he has not yet discussed a new deal.
A Köln source told the Daily Express: “We are aware Arsenal are watching Podolski and they were at Friday’s game.” Podolski, who emerged unhurt from a car accident driving to training yesterday, said: “My family and friends may live here and I know every corner of the city, but if I am in top condition, I could fit into any side in Europe.”
SOURCE: Express
