Reports are out claiming that Lukas Podolski admits he was ready to stick with Arsenal before Galatasaray came calling.
Podolski, 29, was set to return to pre-season training with the Gunners after ending last season on loan at Inter Milan.
“I planned to be joining Arsenal on July 10, but during those days everything went very quickly,” Podolski told AS.
“A movement of the club and then we agreed. I received offers from many clubs, but Galatasaray’s proposal seduced me from the first moment.
“The president and the coach handed me their trust during negotiations.
“Istanbul is a beautiful city, my family is very happy here. I’m going to give the fans of Galatasaray everything I can on the field.”