Lukas Podolski suggests player Arsenal could have signed for free in 2023 is exactly what Mikel Arteta needs
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Lukas Podolski knows a thing or two about what it takes to lead the line for Arsenal.
The German impressively scored 31 goals and provided 15 assists in 82 appearances for the Gunners between 2012 to 2015 – helping the north Londoners win the FA Cup and FA Community Shield.
Podolski also knows what the absence of a top, top striker looks like too, having joined Arsenal just after Robin van Persie swapped the Emirates Stadium for Manchester United.
The Dutchman went on to score 58 goals in 105 games for the Red Devils.
Now – speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport in Italy – Lukas Podolski has heaped praise on a top striker Mikel Arteta actually could have brought to Arsenal for free in 2023.
Lukas Podolski hails Marcus Thuram
Speaking ahead of Wednesday’s UEFA Champions League clash between Inter Milan and Arsenal, the 39-year-old highlighted Marcus Thuram as a potential danger man for the Gunners.
Podolski said: “I say Thuram. Arsenal don't have a striker like that. There is Havertz, that's true, but he's not a No.9 – that's the difference.”
Inter Milan actually managed to sign the France international for free in the summer of 2023 after his contract with Borussia Monchengladbach expired.
Arsenal were said to be keen on Thuram too during that summer – but ultimately decided to sign Kai Havertz in a £65m deal from Chelsea.
The Frenchman has ended up being a huge hit at the San Siro, scoring 23 goals and providing 19 assists in 59 appearances – while also winning the Serie A title and the Supercoppa Italiana.
Arsenal still admire the Inter Milan No.9
It could be argued that Arteta has realised his mistake in ignoring the chance to sign the 27-year-old on a free transfer, based on reports emerging from Italy.
A story from Inter Live recently stated that Arsenal could offer Gabriel Jesus in a deal to sign Thuram from Inter Milan in 2025 – with the Brazil international struggling in north London.
However, the son of Lilian Thuram would cost a significant amount.
Inter Milan are said to value Thuram at £65m – so unless the Italian giants entertain the potential inclusion of Jesus in a player plus cash deal, this move may not materialise.
