Lukas Podolski is one of world football’s greatest mysteries. The man has one hell of a left foot and he’s one of the best finishers in the game. But despite these qualities, he’s always struggled to make it at a big team. For one reason or another, he’s the kind of player that struggles to leave his mark on a game when his team aren’t on top. Some might say that he doesn’t put enough effort in.
Certainly, when you contrast him to the likes of Alexis Sanchez, the difference is clear. The Chilean will run and run, whilst Podolski tends to stand still, waiting for the ball to get to him. If Arsenal are going to win silverware next season, they’re going to need more Sanchez’s and less Podolski’s.
This brings me to The Metro‘s claim that Arsenal are looking to cash-in on Lukas Podolski next summer. In fact, they’re hoping to use him to complete a swap deal for Bayer Leverkusen’s exciting attacking talent, Hakan Calhanoglu.
The Turkish ace has a £19.9m, so it’s unlikely that Arsenal will be able to pull off a straight swap, but this still looks like a move in the right direction. Calhanoglu has been in sensational form this season. In 36 games for Bayer Leverkusen, he’s managed to find the back of the net 10 times. He’s also earned 5 caps for his international side.
All this and he’s only 21-years-old. It certainly looks like he’s set for big things. No wonder he’s earned that impressive price-tag.
Whilst it’ll be somewhat sad to see Lukas Podolski go, this does look like a smart deal for Arsenal. The German ace has nothing left to offer The Gunners, so why not use him as leverage to bring somebody else in?
Arsene Wenger knows his attacking talent. Let’s just hope that he’s unearthed another gem.
What’s your take? Is Lukas Podolski’s Arsenal career over? Should Arsene Wenger move in for Hakan Calhanoglu?
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