Olivier Giroud is one of those Premier League players who divides opinions amongst the viewers. While some section of Arsenal fans see him as a vital part of their squad others are waiting for the day Arsene Wenger decides to replace Giroud with an even more efficient striker.
In the last 24 hours or so, many stories have emerged reporting Arsenal’s interest in swapping Giroud for Gonzalo Higuain. According to AS, Wenger has invited Higuain’s representatives in London this week to discuss a potential move for the Argentine striker.
It also states that Gunners value Giroud in the €30million region with French striker willing to part ways with the North London giants. According to reports from Fichajes, Giroud’s camp is open to the idea of leaving Arsenal if need be and they feel that Giroud can only improve by playing for Napoli.
The Frenchman has come under severe criticism in Premier League for the last couple of seasons where Arsenal fans have constantly expected Giroud to hit 20-goal mark season after season but they have been left frustrated at missed chances and inconsistent performances from Giroud.
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Amid all the possibilities surrounding his exit, Giroud’s agent came out clarifying the doubts and dropped a huge hint towards striker leaving Emirates this summer. Speaking with Radio CRC, Mickael Manuello said: “As of today Giroud is an Arsenal forward.......
“If they were to ask him to leave, then we’d evaluate the situation. There would be no fear for Olivier to go to Napoli, as we’re talking about a magnificent place.
“In Naples my client could have a wonderful lifestyle, not to mention that Maurizio Sarri’s style of football would get the best out of a striker like him.”
Manuello could not have been any direct in his claims of finding a new club for Giroud this summer. According to reports, Arsenal would need to pay £50million plus Giroud if they are to stand any chance of signing Higuain this summer.
Napoli are firm on their €94m release clause and are not willing to settle for less. Arsenal have already lost out on the likes of Jamie Vardy, Alexandre Lacazette and Romelu Lukaku. Thus Higuain could be their last resort to add the much needed attacking flair to their game next season.
We can expect a concrete word on this much talked about rumour later this week after Arsenal’s meeting with Higuain’s representatives.
