Cologne finally approve Podolski deal

Cologne have finally given the green light to allow Lukas Podolski to sign for Arsenal this summer, it has been claimed.

The 26-year-old German striker has been frequently linked with a move to north London, following his most potent individual season in the Bundesliga.

Podolski will reportedly sign a £100,000-per-week contract with Arsenal, but neither club has confirmed that an agreement has been reached between the two respective parties.

But, according to Metro, Cologne have now rubber-stamped a deal that will see Podolski join Arsenal for an initial fee of just under £10 million, which will rise in time depending on appearances.

The acquisition of goalscoring reinforcements this summer is a priority for Arsenal, and the signing of Podolski will go some way to relieving the burden on Robin van Persie.

However, the future of the Gunners' captain remains uncertain, and reports on Tuesday have claimed he is a summer target for Serie A leaders Juventus.