Arsenal lead Giroud chase

Montpellier coach Rene Girard has revealed Arsenal are leading the race to sign in-demand striker Olivier Giroud.

Striker keen on Gunners switch

Montpellier coach Rene Girard has revealed Arsenal are leading the race to sign in-demand striker Olivier Giroud. A host of clubs are chasing Giroud this summer following his goalscoring exploits for Montpellier last season. The 25-year-old netted 25 goals last term to help Montpellier to win the French title and his form has alerted several sides across Europe. Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is thought to be a long-term admirer of Giroud and is keen to bring him to the Emirates this summer. Montpellier are reluctant to lose their star striker, but Girard admits the player is likely to move to Arsenal if they can agree a deal with the French champions. "Arsenal are very interested and Giroud wants to play in England, if Arsene [Wenger] agrees with the president [Louis Nicollin], he will sign for them", Girard told French radio station RMC. Giroud is currently with France at Euro 2012 and the player is expected to make a decision on his future after the tournament.