Arsenal have emerged as favourites to land Germany internations Lukas Podolski despite interest from Russia and Italy.
The 26 year old is believed to be fancying a move away from his current club FC Koln but will only wish to move to a new club where he can be guaranteed first team football to keep his chances of playing for Germany.
Whether a move in January is forthcoming is unknown with Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger previously suggesting that they will not be after anyone during the winter window. Podolski though would face strong competition for a place in the Arsenal line-up at the moment and although the Emirates side appear to require another out and out striker more than anything, the acquisition of Podolski would be welcomed.
His current negotiations with Koln are believed to be at a standstill despite the Bundesliga club suggesting a new deal should be sorted by the winter break they have in the German divisions. Source however suggest otherwise and if a move to the Premier League is on for Podolski then Arsenal remain the front runners with other sides currently showing little interest.