Newspaper reports are suggesting that Arsene Wenger has already lined up a deal for a new striker – even if Robin Van Persie pledges his future to the club. It’s understood that Wenger is quickly trying to complete a deal for Montpellier frontman Olivier Giroud, with some reports hinting that the Gunners may offer Marouane Chamakh as a sweetener in the transfer.
Giroud has been linked with a host of teams throughout the season, with Arsenal, Manchester United, Liverpool and even QPR supposedly considering the 25-year-old. However, it is understood that Arsenal are the only side to register serious interest in the France international, who has been a revelation this term having scored twenty one goals as Montpellier went on to unexpectedly win the French Ligue 1 title.
Bearing in mind Montpellier’s high status in France, one would believe that the French outfit would be reluctant to sell their 6’2” centre forward. However, it is widely known that Giroud’s contract contains a release clause, which would allow him to leave the French champions for around €16 million.
Moreover, Giroud’s future has been cast into further doubt after he claimed he would be open to a move to the United Kingdom. He said, “I do not know yet what I’ll do next season, if I leave or stay in Montpellier. But English clubs make me dream, this championship makes me dream. But I am not obsessed with England! And money is not a motivation in my career. I make strategic choices of a sporting point of view.”
Recent newspaper reports hint that Arsene Wenger is more than open to the possibility of including Marouane Chamakh as part of the deal, with the former Bordeaux man severely limited in opportunities in the last campaign after scoring just the one goal. It’s thought that a move back to France would suit all parties – and also allow Arsenal to make a move for the impressive Giroud.