The Inter boss is keen to bolster his squad in January and has not ruled out a move for the versatile Switzerland international
Germany international Podolski is expected to complete a loan deal with Inter in the coming days having become frustrated with a bit-part role at Arsenal.
His capture is being hailed as a coup by Mancini, who believes his best years are ahead of him.
"Podolski has had a great career so far and he can help us over the next five months," the former Manchester City and Galatasaray boss said on Monday ahead of the midweek clash against Juventus.
"We haven't hired someone who is 34, 35, at the end of his career, but a competitive player."
Inter have also been linked with Shaqiri, who, like Podolski, has grown tired of a lack of playing time and is expected to leave Bayern Munich.
Mancini added: "Shaqiri is another option for us, but we don't know what will happen in the next month. We're looking for a player who can play both as a striker and winger, and Shaqiri plays both roles."
Inter resume Serie A following the winter break in 11th place and are in need of swift improvement if they are to play European competition next season.
A strong January window is, therefore, essential and has seen a host of players linked with a move to San Siro.
Hajduk Split midfielder Tino Susic has spoken of his desire to join Inter while Ezequiel Lavezzi, currently suspended by Paris Saint-Germain, has also been suggested as a target.
"Lavezzi, as well as Shaqiri, plays for a giant club, it's very difficult to try to sign him," said Mancini. "Susic is more of an investment, who may be a good bet for the future."
Mancini revealed he would not be tinkering with his defence ahead of the trip to Turin, meaning Nemanja Vidic is set to miss out.
"Vidic wasn't fully fit in the last few weeks, that's why he never played. Now he has recovered, so I think he'll get some chances. But at the moment I fully trust in my four-man defence."
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