Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is tracking FC Cologne striker Lukas Podolski. Wenger had Podolski watched on Friday night as he considers how to lift the considerable workload on Robin van Persie.

Dutchman Robin Van Persie will be given the first of a series of mini-breaks set out for him in tonight's Carling Cup quarter-final against Manchester City.

A Cologne source told the Daily Express: "We are aware Arsenal are watching Podolski and they were at Friday's game."

Podolski, who emerged unhurt from a car accident driving to training yesterday, said: "My family and friends may live here and I know every corner of the city, but if I am in top condition, I could fit into any side in Europe."