Lukas Podolski is ready to take the place of departing Robin Van Persie and hopes to fire Arsenal to the title next season.
The German international, who joined from Cologne for a fee of £11 million, believes the Gunners can put previous disappointments behind them and make a serious challenge.
He said: “The Premier League has five or six teams who can play for the title – and we are one of them. We really want to win this trophy.
“I hope I can score a lot of goals and make some assists to help the club in the Premier League.” (Daily Telegraph)
Van Persie on the other hand appears destined for a move to Manchester United, with the Dutchman expecting to pass a medical and finalise personal terms today.
Meanwhile, his international coach, Louis Van Gaal, appeared to have an open and frank conversation with the forward, which he claims was one of the best he has had with a player.
Van Gaal spoke ahead of his first match in charge of Holland in the 4-2 defeat to Belgium.
“I had a fantastic conversation with Robin. I had to tell him that his situation has changed and that I prefer Huntelaar for now”, he told De Telegraaf.
But he admitted he had no input in Van Persie’s decision to leave the North Londoners.
“I think the player always has to decide for himself,” he said.
“When he wants he can ask me for advice, but then I will speak to him, not to you.”
But one player who has committed to the Arsenal cause is Laurent Koscielny, who put pen to paper on a long-term deal at the club.
The 26-year-old, French international said: “Now I know the Premier League – I am more mature and more physical.
“I know I played a good season last year, but I want to do more for Arsenal this year. I want to win a trophy.”
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