Arsenal add Giroud to attacking armoury

Arsenal FC have further strengthened their forward line ahead of the new season with the signing of Olivier Giroud on a long-term contract.

Arsenal had already secured the services of Germany's Lukas Podolski in late April and have now added France's Giroud, another player involved in UEFA EURO 2012 this month. The 25-year-old striker finished as Ligue 1's top scorer in 2011/12 thanks to 21 goals in 36 appearances for champions Montpellier Hérault SC.

"We are delighted to have secured the signing of Olivier Giroud," said Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger. "He has a very good physical presence and is exceptional in the air, with a great work ethic. We are excited about Olivier joining us and he will add an additional dimension to our attacking options next season.

"He has proved he is capable of performing at the top level with club and country, and we saw what a big influence he was in Montpellier's championship-winning side last season. We all look forward to Olivier joining us and seeing him play in an Arsenal shirt."

Giroud, who made three appearances for Les Bleus at UEFA EURO 2012, passed a medical and agreed personal terms with the Gunners on Monday evening. "I am delighted to be here at Arsenal and to be part of one of the great teams in English football," he said. "It's been a dream since I was young to play in the Premier League.

"I was attracted by the philosophy of football and Arsène Wenger's 'touch' at this club. I have always admired Arsenal with its great history and reputation, and I now hope to achieve great things here. I'm very proud to be a Gunner and I will give my best for all the Arsenal fans."