Agent: 'Arsene Wenger wants to keep Lukas Podolski'

The agent of Lukas Podolski has revealed that Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger wanted to keep the Galatasaray-bound forward.

The 30-year-old is widely believed to be joining the Turkish giants shortly after confirming that a "lucrative" offer was placed, adding that he wants the move.

The Germany international struggled for first-team chances under Wenger last season, before enduring a lukewarm loan spell at Inter Milan, and his representative says that a lack of assurances will lead to his exit.

"We had very good talks with Wenger," Nassim Touihri told Bild.

"He wanted to keep Lukas, but couldn't give him a guarantee that he will be starter. That's why we agreed on a transfer."

Podolski, who joined the Gunners in 2012 from Koln, netted 31 times in 82 appearances for the club.