Koln ponder Podolski replacement

Koln coach Stale Solbakken has admitted his side will have to search for a potential replacement for Lukas Podolski, amid rumours the striker could leave his hometown club.

The 26-year-old has scored 14 goals in 14 Bundesliga appearances this season and recently requested more time to consider whether or not to extend his contract, which is set to expire in 2013.

“I rule out nothing. Especially not in Koln, because Koln is not normal,” Solbakken told Bild. We need a ‘Plan B’ and have to look at what we can do after Poldi’s decision.”

Koln have repeatedly stated their intent to extend Podolski’s contract, and while the player’s agent recently admitted his client will not leave in the winter, the Rhine side may be forced to sell him in the summer should he eventually decline an extension.

Arsenal, Lazio, Lokomotiv Moscow and Schalke are the clubs reportedly interested in Podolski.