Bayern linked with Podolski

Bayern Munich are believed to be mulling over a swoop for Lukas Podolski.

The Bavarian giants are currently down a striker following the news that Roque Santa Cruz faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines with knee ligament damage.

Bayern coach Felix Magath acknowledges he needs to fill the gap left by Santa Cruz, but is refusing to confirm whether Podolski is on his shortlist.

The Bundesliga leaders are happy to soldier on until the winter break, with Magath set to asses his transfer options once the window reopens in January.

"It will be difficult with just three strikers for the second half of the season," explained Magath to Kicker.

"We have the winter break coming up. We'll continue until that without panicking, after that the Podolski speculation will resume."

Podolski had a public falling out with coach Uwe Rapolder back in October, although it is believed the pair have settled their differences.