by Lewis Ambrose

Lukas Podolski is on his way out of Arsenal, with his agent confirming a deal to Galatasaray on Thursday before going on to make an odd and unlikely claim about Arsène Wenger.

It became clear very quickly last season that Lukas Podolski was no longer key in Wenger’s plans. The Arsenal manager started Yaya Sanogo before eventually signing Danny Welbeck. He had already added Alexis Sánchez to his squad, and was looking to play Mesut Özil out wide at times.

In short, Podolski was surplus to requirements and started NONE of Arsenal’s 20 Premier League games before he left for Inter Milan in January. Just seven substitute appearances were made, only once did he play more than 20 minutes. Podolski wasn’t needed.

“We had very good talks with Wenger,” said Podolski’s agent, Nassim Touihri.

“He wanted to keep Lukas, but couldn’t give him a guarantee that he will be starter. That’s why we agreed on a transfer.”

Wenger has got over £2M for a player he didn’t want. He has also got his considerable wage off of the bill.

I’m sorry, Mr Touihri, but the idea that Arsenal were eager for the player to stay are – to be frank – nonsense.

What a ridiculous claim.