More departures forecast as Bundesliga pair court Arsenal forward

Despite playing a pivotal role in Arsenal’s 3-1 win at London foes Fulham, the Gunners’ German forward Lukas Podolski could yet depart the Emirates before the closure of the current transfer window.

Arsene Wenger’s men have shown remarkable resilience once more after their shock opening-day defeat to Aston Villa by winning two potentially difficult away games in comprehensive fashion, scoring six and conceding one. This apparent return to form has shrunk their Premier League winning odds to 16/1 from 22/1.

Much has been made of Wenger’s lack of activity in terms of bringing players into the club this summer, while an equal amount has been commented on the sheer volume of players he’s let go.

None of these were first-team stars for a change though and it must be remembered that the Gunners’ ideal starting XI remains a very strong one.

One player who has frequently struggled to hold down a place in this starting XI is Podolski, who was shunted in and out of his left-wing berth throughout his maiden campaign with the north Londoners and began this one on the bench.

He proved his worth when called upon against the Cottagers though, notching two valuable goals to grant his side their first league win of the season and this clinical display will not have gone unnoticed by potential suitors Schalke, Wolfsburg and Galatasaray, who are all believed to be keen on the 100-plus cap international.

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s knee injury might yet see Wenger resist any overtures for Podolski, however, with cover at a much-publicised premium within the Gunners’ camp.

Still, should another striker find his way onto the Arsenal payroll, with Karim Benzema the latest marquee signing linked, their French coach’s notoriously frugal arm may be twisted and he could yet relinquish the services of the man the club broke their wage structure to sign last summer.

All odds and markets accurate as of publication’s time and date