Olivier Giroud, Montpellier

Arsenal transfer news: Rene Girard says the Gunners are keen to sign Olivier Giroud

Montpellier manager Rene Girard says that Arsenal are chasing star striker Olivier Giroud and are likely to get their man if they make a bid for the Ligue 1 top goalscorer.

Giroud’s 21 strikes led Montpellier to the title last season and his goalscoring prowess has attracted the attention of Arsene Wenger, according to Girard.

“Giroud loves England as well as Arsenal. We know Wenger wants him in his team. If they make an offer that’s probably where he’ll go,” he told RMC.

“It’s likely that Giroud had to go to Arsenal. In this case we’ld like to get Chamack on loan but I don’t know if it is possible.” Giroud reportedly has a release cause in his contract with the French champions of around £12m.