Podolski denies Arsenal talks

Cologne striker Lukas Podolski denied any discussions with Premier League giants Arsenal, regarding a potential transfer.

The Germany international has been linked with a move away from the RheinEnergieStadion, with north London rumoured to be a possible destination.

When asked about Arsenal, Podolski was full of praise for the Emirates Stadium club, but admitted that he has not been in discussions with the English giants.

“Arsenal are a top club. They have a good team and play with the best in England,” he told Bild.

“Still, there have been no talks.”

Podolski redirected his energy towards his side’s upcoming Bundesliga clash with the seventh-placed Stuttgart.

“My full concentration is on Stuttgart, since on Saturday we have an important game,” he said.

Cologne sporting director Volker Finke also confirmed on Friday that his side had rejected an inquiry from Lokomotiv Moscow over the availability of his star asset.

“We have denied Moscow because we want to extend our agreement with Podolski,” he told Bild.

Podolski, 26, has scored nine Bundesliga goals this season. His contract is set to expire in 2013.