The Arsenal Blog

It seems that the Arsenal and Germany striker Lukas Podolski is determined on leaving the Emirates this summer with a host of other European giants waiting in the wings. Podolski is said to want to leave because of the lack of consistent game time and opportunities to play as the central striker under Wenger.

It’s thought that Galatasaray are leading the chase to capture the German international because of a hefty wage packet they have put together at the club. They have also reassured him that he will be the number one striker and first choice no matter what, which is bound to attract his interest as he prefers playing as a striker despite his frequent goal droughts throughout his career. Juventus, Bayer Leverkusen and Anzhi are thought to be interested but Podolski feels he would get the better deal in Turkey.  ...........Read more

After Pat Rice stepped down as Arsene Wenger’s assistant after 44 years with the Gunners, Arsenal kept to their ideals of promoting from within the club. Another former player who has since been working behind the scenes at the Emirates is Steve Bould. He told Arsenal Player about his delight in stepping up from the youth team to become Wenger’s new assistant.

“It is more than excitement. It is an absolute privilege and an honour. I know I have some big boots to fill with Pat having spent 44 years at the club and that is going to be the hard part.”  ...........Read more

The contract talks with Arsenal’s captain Robin Van Persie are not going too well, and it seems that the Dutch striker might leave Arsenal this summer after he snubbed the first set of negotiations held between himself and the club.

Arsene Wenger has stated that he wants Robin to extend his contract before going away to join the Dutch team for the pre-EURO 2012 camp, and that ship is about to sail if the striker won’t accept a deal soon.

Russian club Anzhi have also expressed their interest to sign the Dutchman for a huge salary, while Juventus, City and Barcelona are also on his tracks.  ...........Read more