Arsenal edge closer to Ligue 1 hitman
Arsene Wenger looks assured to spend this summer after a disappointing season and whether he snatches a Champions League spot or not, the Frenchman is expected to make a move for Montpellier forward Olivier Giroud.
The Ligue 1 striker has been linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium in recent months and speculation seems to be gathering momentum after the player himself reportedly expressed his personal desire to play for the English giants.
However, a transfer could depend on the future of Robin van Persie, who has been associated with a move to the likes of Real Madrid or Barcelona after a magnificently prolific year of scoring form.
Should the Dutchman, who’s contract expires in just over a year, leave the North London outfit, Giroud would almost certainly be drafted in as cover, however he could also join the club shoul van Persie stay.
However debatable the comment may be, Giroud hailed the club, and TalkSport reported the hitman as saying: “I love the French feel at Arsenal and the atmosphere that is created by the fans. They always support their players.”
However, he added: “Out of respect to my club I am not considering my future at the moment and we will decide soon what is best for both parties.”
Giroud has been in supreme form for Montpellier this campaign and is largely responsible for the side’s success this season in which they find themselves at the top of the table.
The 25 year-old has made 28 starts for the French side scoring 20 goals in the process and registering seven assists.
If the player were to complete a move to the English top flight, Montpellier would be looking for a fee of £16m after apparently increasing his release fee clause last month.
