Morning Gooners. Some exciting news this morning as Arsenal seem to be edging closer to the signing of France striker Olivier Giroud.

Montpellier manager Rene Girard has confirmed that Olivier Giroud will sign for Arsenal if the Gunners can agree a deal for the striker, according to the Independent.

Giroud scored 25 goals last season to help Montpellier win a surprise Ligue 1 title. This form has alerted several clubs throughout Europe, but it’s Arsenal who are leading the race to land the 25-year-old according to the clubs manager Rene Girard.

Girard is quoted in the Independent as confirming Arsenal’s interest in the striker and saying the player himself wants to play in England. The Montpellier boss then claimed that as long as Arsene Wenger can agree a deal with the president, Giroud will be moving to North London:

“Arsenal are very interested and Giroud wants to play in England, if Arsene agrees with the president, he will sign for them,”

The striker is away on international duty with the France squad at Euro 2012 and has delayed any talks over his future until after the competition has finished. The independent suggest a fee of £13m will be enough to land the talented forward this summer.

FT Verdict

This would be an excellent piece of business, as Giroud would be a great addition to the Arsenal squad. At £13m, he would be a calculated risk but would no doubt strengthen our front line.

Read more Arsenal transfer news

There are also suggestions that Marouane Chamakh could be going the other way as part of any deal, which would make a lot of sense for all parties. The only worry for Gooners is whether Giroud is being lined-up as a replacement for Robin van Persie or not.

Would you like to see Giroud at Arsenal? Get involved in the comments section.

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