Arsene Wenger: 'Lukas Podolski staying at Arsenal'

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has insisted that Lukas Podolski will not be sold before next Monday's transfer deadline.

It had been reported that the Germany international had been informed by Wenger that he could find another club, which was thought to have alerted the likes of Juventus and Wolfsburg.

However, with striker Olivier Giroud potentially sidelined for a number of months with a foot injury, it is believed that Wenger has been forced to alter his viewpoint on Podolski.

He seemed to confirm as much at this afternoon's press conference ahead of tomorrow night's Champions League qualifier against Besiktas when he told reporters: "Podolski is in the squad tomorrow and will stay with us."

The Gunners go into the match against their Turkish opponents having drawn the first leg in Istanbul 0-0 last week.