Lukas podolski’s possible move to inter milan is apparently turning into a game of chicken.
After italian media had already reported an agreement between serie A’s number three and arsenal about a loan deal for the soccer world champion, gunners coach arsene wenger caused further confusion. At a press conference, the frenchman described the offer from inter as a "joke" and, when asked about the interest of the italians, said: "they talk, there is only language. Inter milan is not serious."
Podolski is an arsenal player, "and i want him to stay," wenger stressed, but behind his statements lie what are probably tactical considerations in the transfer negotiations. Apparently, the two clubs are still far apart in their financial ideas. Previously, there was talk that inter would loan the former kolner player for two million euros until the end of the season and then have an option to buy him.
Inter coach roberto mancini, meanwhile, reiterated his interest in signing the 29-year-old. "He’s a good player and he’s on a list of players we’re looking at," said the coach, who is taking his team to a test match against paris st. Germain stays in marrakech.
Podolski has recently expressed his dissatisfaction with being a reserve; he has again been left out of the last two games – even though fellow striker olivier giroud is currently suspended. "I’m not a hanswurst who sits out his contract on the tribune," he had told the "kicker," among others, and sought the conversation with wenger.
Wenger does not believe that a loan of podolski would make sense in terms of more playing time. "I have no doubt that some players need to gain experience. That is not the case with podolski," emphasized the frenchman. Wenger considers this more necessary for younger players like yaya sanogo.
Podolski was signed in 2012 for ten million euros by the 1. FC koln moved to the english capital. This season, he made only twelve appearances in the premier and champions leagues, mostly as a substitute. After all, he still scored three goals in the konigsklasse.