Experienced German striker Lukas Podolski is close to joining English Premier League side Arsenal from Cologne, the German daily Bild claims on its website.

The 26-year-old – capped 95 times and a veteran of two World Cups and Euro 2008 – has apparently already agreed personal terms with Arsenal, though, the two clubs have yet to agree a fee.

Podolski’s contract with Cologne, a club he adores as he grew up in the city after his family moved there from Poland, runs until 2013 and the Bundesliga outfit had been seeking an extension.

Podolski is currently injured but has scored 15 goals of the 30 that Cologne have netted in the Bundesliga.

Cologne currently lie fifth from bottom on the ladder and are battling against relegation.