Arsenal have been linked with a move for Gonzalo Higuain, a transfer that could lead to Giroud’s exit from Emirates stadium. However, Serie A champions Juventus are said to be willing to spend 78 million pounds for the Argentina forward.
Giroud (right) rues a missed chance in a Premier League match for Arsenal
A section of Italian and British press had reported earlier this week that Higuain could move to Arsenal from Napoli in exchange of Olivier Giroud and an additional 50 million pounds. Following the reports, the Frenchman’s agent Michael Manuello has finally cleared the air regarding. The Standard quotes him as saying:
"Everything I've read on the Giroud is not true. I personally have only said that if Arsenal want to sell, then we will see.
"I do not know where [the Napoli story] came from. We never talked to Naples and there are no other persons appointed over me that can do this - we need to clarify this.
"You always need two strikers and Welbeck is out for (a total of) nine months, unfortunately. But if you play in a great team, it is natural that we could face strong competition."
Giroud, 29, joined the North Londoners from Montpellier for 13 million pounds in 2012. In his four seasons with the Gunners, he has been constantly criticized for being inconsistent in front of goal, especially towards the end of the season when the club is gunning for important titles. He has scored a total of 57 league goals for Arsenal in 135 appearances in four seasons.
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