Arsenal transfers: Olivier Giroud open to new Gunners deal

Olivier Giroud has rubbished reports that he wants to leave Arsenal in the summer transfer window.

The France international has been linked with a return to Ligue 1 after a mixed season at The Emirates.

I want to be here next season, at least that’s my will

Olivier Giroud

The 27-year-old has scored 14 goals and made seven assists this term, but has been dogged by issues off the pitch.

However, Giroud is adamant that he is happy in the English capital, adding that he would be open to signing a new deal at Arsenal.

“You shouldn’t listen to that. A lot of things were said. I’m still happy in London and with Arsenal and think I will be in the future,” Giroud is quoted as saying by the Daily Mirror.

“I have a contract until 2016 and I’m an Arsenal player. I want to be here next season, at least that’s my will.”

When asked if he would sign a new contract, Giroud added: “Why not?”

Giroud also spoke about his strike in a 3-1 victory over West Ham United last Wednesday which earned him comparisons to Arsenal legend Dennis Bergkamp.

“I was ribbed about it,” he said. “People told me it was a goal a la Bergkamp, which is a nice compliment.

“There’s everything I like in this goal: the positioning, using your body to open up the space and following that up with a good control; because for a striker it’s good control that makes the difference in the penalty area.

“So that’s good, it shows I have moral resources and that’s good for the team.”