Giroud to Arsenal moves closer
Arsenal’s attempts to lure Montpellier striker Olivier Giroud to the Emirates Stadium have been given a boost after German side Borussia Monchengladbach pulled out of the race, The Mirror reports.
Giroud finished the season as a French champion as unfancied Montpellier shocked the odds to win the title and has now attracted interest from across Europe. Monchengladbach had hoped a £12m would have been enough for the French international, but sporting director Max Eberl has conceded defeat in his attempts. Arsenal are now the favourites for the 25 year old, who scored 21 goals for Montpellier last season.
Eberl said: “We remain true to our policy that we do not throw our money out of the window. The problem in our negotiations is that we are in competition with clubs like Arsenal and top clubs in Germany.”
Earlier this week, Montpellier manager Rene Girard told French radio station RMC that Wenger’s side were the favourites in the race for Giroud. The 25 year old only cost Montpellier £1.7m two years ago, a club record transfer fee, and Wenger is looking to pair Giroud with captain Robin van Persie. Arsenal are expected to open contract talks with the striker when he returns from Euro 2012 and then allow a lengthy holiday before returning for pre-season.
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