France international striker Olivier Giroud has expressed his pride at having been bought by Arsenal and pledged to do his best for the London club.

 

Arsenal have snapped up Giroud from Ligue 1 champions Montpellier, winning the race for a player who was scouted by both Bayern Munich and Valencia last season, while Newcastle United also held an interest.

 

Giroud scored 21 goals in 36 French top flight games in 2011/12 as the Stade de la Mosson outfit powered past Paris Saint-Germain to claim the crown.

 

Now Giroud will play his football at the Emirates Stadium – and he could not be happier.

 

“It is huge satisfaction to join this club and it has been a dream since I was young to play in the Premier League”, the 25-year-old told Arsenal’s official site, before commenting on what drew him to the Gunners.

 

“I was attracted by the philosophy of football and Arsene Wenger’s touch at this club.

 

“I am very proud to be a Gunner and I will give my all for the Arsenal fans.”

 

Giroud was raised at the legendary Clairefontaine Academy, though took his time to truly develop, with a stint at Tours pivotal.

 

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