Lukas Podolski: Arsenal Agree Deal with Cologne

Lukas Podolski looks set to sign for Arsenal this summer, with reports today suggesting that the Germany international has agreed a deal ahead of a prospective move.

Months of speculation have surrounded the FC Cologne (Köln) striker, with Liverpool and big spending Russians Lokomotiv Moscow and Anzhi Makhachkala also having showed interest.

It seems Arsene Wenger has stolen a march on his rivals though, and could perhaps be embarking on a spending spree that many fans have been crying out for for years. 

Expense

The reported fee is a little over £10m with a contract believed to be in the £100,000 region, with a medial still having to be passed before it is rubber stamped.

Arsenal's recent rejuvenation has masked over what is in truth a weak side, one that you would think has to be vastly improved to convince Robin van Persie to stay put.

The Dutchman is head and shoulders above everyone else at the club—regularly the difference maker in games—and the signing of Podolski could be the first step in persuading him of the club's intent to challenge for top honours next season.

However, this one signing alone isn't going to propel the club back the top.

There are many areas that have to be improved before they will sit alongside the two Manchesters—City and United—at the summit. 

History

Podolski himself may fee he has a point to prove, after his last big money move blew up in his face.

The Polish-born German international broke through at Cologne, plundering goals before Bayern Munich came knocking.

His reputation took a hit though, with goals proving so hard to come by he was actually relegated to the second string for a short time.

After a rather unhappy time, he returned to Cologne, where the goals have once again flowed, resulting in renewed interest from a number of top clubs.

Despite also having a very good record at international level, Arsenal will provide Podolski with the opportunity to prove he can make it at the top.

And if he does indeed succeed—and Wenger can make some more shrewd signings—could we be talking about Arsenal as title contenders once again?