Olivier Giroud has confirmed that he’s close to reaching an agreement for a contract extension at Arsenal.

The striker has 18 months left on his existing deal and, for a while, when he wasn’t getting regular football, it looked as if he could be heading for the exit. However, now, during an interview with French media outlet, Telefoot, the big guy has confirmed that he feels good in north London and will be staying.

“We are about to reach an agreement for an extension (to my contract),” he said.

“It was also a gesture of confidence, I want to continue the adventure here in this family of Arsenal. I feel good here.”

The confirmation comes as welcome news to most Gooners, myself included, who realise how much we need the 30-year-old. In five starts, he’s scored five times and assisted twice. He’s dug us out of holes more than once this season and now that he’s getting the game time, he’s obviously decided to put pen to paper.

The France international genuinely seems to love the club and has a good relationship with the fans. I’ve always said it would be a shame to see him go so I’m happy he’s staying.