He was one player that a lot of fans wanted to see succeed as a Gunner but it just never worked out for him. Striker Lukas Podolski has joined Galatasaray from Arsenal on a three-year deal. The Germany international, 30, has signed for the Turkish champions for a reported fee of £2.8m. Podolski underwent a medical and then signed his contract with the Turkish side at their Turk Telecom Arena home.

Podolski moved to Arsenal from German side FC Koln in 2012 for a reported £11m and scored 31 goals in 82 appearances for the Gunners. He helped Arsenal win the FA Cup in 2013 but spent the second half of last season on loan at Inter Milan. His chances became limited as Gunners’ manager Arsene Wenger added the likes of Mesut Ozil, Alexis Sanchez and Danny Welbeck to his forward options. Wenger also has Theo Walcott, Olivier Giroud and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain at his disposal.

Galatasaray president Dursun Aydin Ozbek said he was delighted to have finally worked out a deal for the Germany international. “Podolski was a player we have been following for a long time,” he said at the announcement of the signing. “We have met the expectations of our fans. We think he will serve us for many years.” The 2014 World Cup winner, who was warned he needed regular football before Euro 2016, will now look to revive his career in Turkey after a disappointing loan spell at Inter Milan during the second half of last season.