Olivier Giroud, Montpellier

Transfer news: Gilles Grimandi has backed Olivier Giroud to step up if the Dutchman leaves

Arsenal scout Gilles Grimandi has revealed that the signing of Olivier Giroud was done with replacing Robin van Persie in mind.

The Dutchman announced that he does not intend to extend his deal with the north London club, which expires next year, linking him with move to Manchester City, Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus.

And the Gunners legend revealed that the move was made to avoid last year’s struggle to replace Cesc Fabregas and Samir Nasri in the event that Van Persie leaves.

“Was the recruitment of Giroud made to compensate for his [Van Persie’s] departure? Yes, we worked to avoid being cornered,” he is quoted as saying on le10sport.com.

“We want him to stay home but he is left with one year on his contract so it is complicated.

“At Arsenal, there is a healthy atmosphere, he’s been here for eight years and he has a real commitment to the club”.