Lukas Podolski’s transfer to Inter Milan moved closer on Saturday when the Germany forward met coach Roberto Mancini at the Serie A side’s training ground and said his goodbyes to Arsenal.
“The World Cup winner was at the Centro Sportivo Angelo Moratti today to get to know his new training ground and meet the Nerazzurri coach,” an Inter statement said as media reported that a medical had been passed and he would soon sign.
“New year, new beginnings. #ForzaInter #Mancini” Podolski wrote on his Instagram social media page, alongside a picture with Mancini. Earlier on the same site, Podolski had said goodbye to Arsenal fans.
“I can’t express in words my gratitude towards Arsenal fans for all they have done for me in my years in London. Please know my heart always holds a place for you,” Podolski said.
“I’ve loved every minute playing for Arsenal and I hope I have left my mark on the club and fans alike. Hopefully we shall meet again.”
Podolski, 29, was pictured arriving at Linate airport in Milan on Friday evening, where he was greeted by a large number of Inter fans. The German forward, who missed Arsenal’s 2-0 defeat by Southampton on Thursday due to injury, posed for photos with supporters and brandished a blue and black scarf.
Podolski had become a bit-part player at Arsenal despite injuries to Olivier Giroud and Theo Walcott, with Arsène Wenger appearing to better trust the speed and skills of Danny Welbeck and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.
Podolski, who joined the Gunners from Cologne in 2012, has still managed 31 goals in 82 appearances in all competitions and his record will surely appeal to Inter, 11th in Serie A and in need of more firepower.
Wenger said on Thursday the club had received an increased offer from Inter for Podolski, who has more than 100 caps for world champions Germany.
“The first proposal was farcical,” said Wenger. “After, when they come back a bit more seriously, then you will see what happens now.”
Arsenal, who Wenger has insisted have money available to spend in the January transfer window, are currently sixth in the Premier League.