Arsenal sign Giroud from Montpellier

Arsenal have secured the services of France striker Olivier Giroud from Montpellier for an undisclosed fee.

The Premier League side had long been linked with a move for the France international, and the completion of the transfer is now just the subject of formal processes after the 25-year-old completed a medical on Monday.

Giroud played a key role in Montpellier’s Ligue 1-winning 2011/12 campaign with 21 goals in 36 appearances, and Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is over the moon with the striker’s arrival at the Gunners.

“We are delighted to have secured the signing of Olivier Giroud. He has a very good physical presence and is exceptional in the air, with a great work ethic. We are excited about Olivier joining us and he will add an additional dimension to our attacking options next season,” Wenger said.

“He has proved that he is capable of performing at the top level with club and country, and we saw what a big influence he was in Montpellier’s championship-winning side last season. We all look forward to Olivier joining us and seeing him play in an Arsenal shirt.”

Giroud, whose long-term contract with Arsenal commences on July 1, was equally pleased with his move to the Champions League hopefuls.

“I am delighted to be here at Arsenal and to be part of one of the great teams in English football,” he said.

“It’s a huge satisfaction to join this great club and it’s been a dream since I was young to play in the Premier League.

“I was attracted by the philosophy of football and Arsene Wenger’s ‘touch’ at this club. I have always admired Arsenal with its great history and reputation, and I now hope to achieve great things here. I’m very proud to be a Gunner and I will give my best for all the Arsenal fans.”

Giroud joins compatriots such as Laurent Koscielny, Bacary Sagna, Sebastien Squillaci, Abou Diaby and Francis Coquelin at the Gunners.