Hamburg - Lukas Podolski expects his summer return to Cologne from Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich to be finalized soon, the Germany striker said in an interview published on Saturday.

Podolski, 23, told the Bild daily that "a few details need to be finalized. I believe that we will reach an agreement soon."

Munich chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge and general manager Uli Hoeness indicated realier the clubs were were close to an agreement as well after Cologne made an improved offer.

Bayern want 10 million euros (13.5 million dollars) for Podolski who is homesick for Cologne after failing to establish a first-team place in Munich since joining them in 2006.

Podolski reiterated he won't switch during the current transfer window but in summer after the season. (dpa)