According to an interview on arsenal.com, striker Olivier Giroud has hinted that he would like to stay with the Gunners despite the imminent arrival of Alexandre Lacazette and interest from West Ham United and Everton.
What’s the word, then?
Well, the Sunday Times reported last weekend that Everton had joined West Ham United in the race to sign the £20m-rated Frenchman, who scored 16 goals last season, who was expected to leave Arsenal when they completed the signing of Alexandre Lacazette – a move which is imminent.
The 30-year-old grew frustrated with his lack of first team opportunities last season with Alexis Sanchez often preferred up top, and it was thought that the arrival of his France international teammate would only hamper those chances even more and that he would look to move on for more regular playing time.
However, Giroud’s latest comments on the weekly podcast have suggested that he could yet stay at the Emirates for at least another year.
What did he say?
He told the club’s official podcast: “That’s why I want to carry on my good journey at Arsenal and I always want to give my best.
“I would love to win another title, or maybe more until the end of my contract.
“The motivation is here, always doing your best to make your family proud.”
Those comments certainly aren’t ones that would suggest Giroud is on his way out of the club in the coming weeks, with his current deal due to expire in 2019.
How did Giroud do last season?
Despite not being a regular starter, the 30-year-old still made a huge impact for the Gunners – especially from the substitutes’ bench.
The centre-forward scored his 16 goals in 40 appearances in all competitions, while he also provided a further seven assists.
Could he still leave the club?
Of course, circumstances can change quickly and if Lacazette joins and Alexis Sanchez stays, then it is hard to see Giroud getting too much of a look in next season – especially with the likes of Danny Welbeck and Theo Walcott able to play up top too.
With the 2018 World Cup just a year away, regular playing time could be vital to the 30-year-old keeping his spot in the France side and therefore a move to Everton or West Ham could still happen.
What’s the verdict, then?
Well, despite the comments it is difficult to see much of an Arsenal future for Giroud next season, and a move away still looks to be more likely than him staying at the Emirates.
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