Podolski agrees Cologne return
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Bayern Munich have agreed to let unsettled Germany international striker Lukas Podolski return to Cologne.
The 23-year-old moved to the Bundesliga giants from Cologne in the summer of 2006 but has grown frustrated by his lack of first-team opportunities at Bayern.
Reports suggest the transfer will take place in the summer after Podolski agreed a four-year contract with Cologne.
Bayern general manager, Uli Hoeness confirmed the news by saying: "I think that the transfer will take place on Monday."
Cologne are 11th at the halfway point of the Bundesliga season after winning seven of their opening 17 games.
Meanwhile, Hoffenheim striker Vedad Ibisevic has been forced to have an operation on his ruptured cruciate knee ligament.
The current Bundesliga leaders expect the 24-year-old Bosnia international to play no further part in the current campaign.
Ibisevic's team-mate, Marvin Compper, said: "We had a good talk with Vedad before his return to the hospital in Heidelberg and are happy the operation went well.
"It has happened, now we have to look forward and appear strong."
Ibisevic suffered the injury in last week's friendly against Hamburg when he had to be stretchered from the pitch.
The news comes as a major setback to Hoffenheim as Ibisevic had scored 18 goals in the first 17 games of the campaign.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments