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Podolski expects to leave Arsenal

Kevin Palmer | ESPN FC
August 24, 2014
Wenger praises Giroud contribution

Lukas Podolski expects to leave Arsenal before the transfer window closes and his advisors are assessing "several offers", sources have told ESPN.

The forward's future at the club has been the subject of speculation throughout this summer and the £35 million signing of Alexis Sanchez appears to be the trigger that will end Podolski's time with Arsenal.

Lukas Podolski won the World Cup with Germany © Getty Images
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Arsene Wenger said he would be resting his German World Cup winners at the start of the season and has repeatedly played down speculation over Podolski, 29, but it is increasingly evident he does not have a future at the club.

Podolski completed 90 minutes in the Premier League for Arsenal just five times last season and has admitted Wenger's decision to persistently substitute him was a source of annoyance.

"Of course you cannot be happy when you always go out after 60, 70 minutes. Of course I am not happy always to be substituted," Podolski told reporters last April. "It's the decision of the boss. It's not always easy when you play for a big club but of course I am not happy to always come out and watch from outside. You cannot be happy with this situation."

The former Bayern Munich and Cologne forward was omitted from Arsenal's squad for the trip to Everton on Saturday, but he still sent a message of support to his team-mates.

Juventus have been linked with a move for Podolski, while he may also choose to return to Germany with Wolfsburg and Bayer Leverkusen both reportedly keen.

This article originally appeared on ESPN FC

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