by Nia Griffiths
Olivier Giroud has hinted that signing a new striker could be ‘nice‘ for the team during this transfer window.
After Arsenal’s 3-1 win against Everton in the Barclays Asia Trophy, the boss spoke to the press and hailed Theo Walcott’s performance. The forward scored the opener in what was a smooth victory and looks well on his way back to full fitness after last season’s knee injury.
However, what’s bound to hit the news is Giroud’s apparent readiness to sign a new striker. When quizzed about his future at the club and the possibility of signing reinforcements in his position, at first the Frenchman wouldn’t dignify the question with an answer but then seemed unable to say that we definitely shouldn’t.
Speaking in his post-match press conference, he said, “[Walcott] is sharp and prepared well. He is like every player – they look fit, close to full fitness. It’s quite amazing how the players are back to a good body shape and a good [level] of fitness because they prepare well.” He continued, “Now football has changed – they come back after holidays and they don’t start from zero. They have done their homework and he is one of them.”
Adding, “Yes [we are looking to renew Walcott’s contract soon], because he is close to the end of is contract next season.”
When asked about Giroud, Wenger became cagey, saying, “I’m not honouring this question. I’m trying to focus on my pre-season preparations. We are doing well together with a really good [cohesion] and the most important for me is that the team is always improving.”
However, he went on to say, “If there is a new striker, it will be nice for all the team, because competition is good for everyone.”
Perhaps there’s more to recent claims that we’re interested in Real Madrid’s Karim Benzema than meets the eye.