Grimandi: Giroud signed to replace van Persie

Arsenal scout Gilles Grimandi has admitted striker Olivier Giroud is a direct replacement for want-away captain Robin van Persie.

The 28-year-old van Persie, who scored 30 English Premier League goals last season, last week announced his intention not to extend his deal with the north London club once it expires in mid-2013.

And former Arsenal defender Grimandi has now revealed that the capture of the former Montpellier forward was made with the Dutchman’s future in mind.

Speaking to French website le10sport.com, Grimandi said: “Was the recruitment of Giroud made to compensate for his (van Persie’s) departure? Yes, we worked to avoid being cornered.

“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.”

Grimandi also said the former Feyenoord striker, who joined the club for 2.75 million pounds in 2004, has his price.

“If there is a great offer and if he wants to leave, it will be difficult to keep him,” Grimandi said.

“I would never have thought that players such as Thiago Silva could be transferable and that was the case at a time. There are parameters you cannot handle.”