Galatasaray have officially confirmed the signing of forward Lukas Podolski from Arsenal.

Podolski arrived in Istanbul earlier today and having passed a medical with the Turkish champions has put pen to paper on a three-year contract with the option for a further year, meaning he could remain with Galatasaray until the summer of 2019.




Arsenal are reported to be receiving €4m for the Germany international, who spent the second half of last season on loan at Inter in Italy's Serie A under Roberto Mancini.

Podolski, speaking at the signing ceremony held today in Turkey, said: "I am very happy to agree to join Galatasaray.
 

 

"I've come to a winning team, a team that will compete in the Champions League", he continued.

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"We will fight to go to the next round.

"I've not just come to Galatasaray for the Champions League, I'm looking at the overall picture. I've always followed Galatasaray."

Podolski will link up with Netherlands international Wesley Sneijder at Galatasaray and is looking forward to turning out alongside the midfielder at the Turk Telekom Arena.

"Wesley Sneijder is a very good player. It increases your motivation to play with such players", he explained.

Arsenal signed Podolski from German Bundesliga side 1.FC Koln in 2012 and his never-say-die attitude quickly made him a favourite with the Gunners faithful.