Arsenal forward Lukas Podolski has played down reports he could have been used as a makeweight to lure Julian Draxler to Emirates Stadium in January.
The Gunners sent a delegation to Germany to thrash out a deal for Draxler during the mid-season window, but the Bundesliga club knocked back an approach after both parties failed to agree on a valuation.
And reports suggested at the time a deal involving the Germany international could see Podolski move the other way, but the Arsenal man has denied speculation he was on the verge of a move to Schalke as part of an exchange deal.
The 28-year-old, who has started just five Premier League games this season, heaped praise on his compatriot, but insists they have never discussed the prospect of Draxler moving to Arsenal.
"Every top player is of interest to Arsenal - and Draxler is certainly one of those," Podolski told Bild.
"But I do not know what the [club bosses] are planning.
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"I only know that a swap deal involving me and him was never a consideration.
"I am in contact with Julian. He is a great guy... but we haven't spoken about a move."
