As reported by Metro, Louis Saha has backed Arsenal to re-sign Olivier Giroud. The 42-year-old believes that the Chelsea forward could be useful for Mikel Arteta following a poor start to the season for the Gunners this term.
Saha told Genting Bet, “Olivier Giroud could be a good option for Arsenal if they were to re-sign him. He is a top striker. He might not always give you the style that you want but he is always questioned and stands up to answer them. Any side in England would love to have a Giroud on top form in their team.”
Arsenal’s Attacking Woes This Season
Arsenal have emerged as one of the least threatening sides in the Premier League this season in an attacking perspective. A club, who were primarily known for their attacking prowess have failed to find the back of the net consistently, with star striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang netting just two goals in 11 matches.
The Gabonese international initially started the season out wide, where his performances were beyond disastrous. Unfortunately, Aubameyang has been equally ineffective in a more central role as well, with the forward yet to score from open play in the Premier League since the opening matchday.
Other strikers haven’t fared any better either with Alexandre Lacazette, in particular, amassing a poor conversion rate despite getting relatively more chances than his teammates. As for Eddie Nketiah, he has perhaps been unlucky with a lack of opportunities, having only made one start in the league so far.
Why Olivier Giroud Could Be Perfect For The Gunners
Considering Arsenal’s attacking woes in the Premier League this term, it is only fair to point out the Gunners do, in fact, need a new striker in the upcoming January transfer window and that is where Giroud becomes an intriguing option.
The Frenchman might not be a young striker like Erling Haaland who is brimming with talent and potential. But, he is one of the most experienced strikers playing in England right now, having made almost 250 appearances in the English top-flight.
However, what really makes Giroud such a viable target for Arsenal is his physical and aerial prowess – something the current crop of Arsenal forwards truly lack in their game. The ex-Montpellier striker can indeed operate as a target man, which is something that could make sense for Arteta right now given his side’s lack of creation this season.
Additionally, Giroud can provide the winning mentality to the team, having won the FIFA World Cup, as well as the FA Cup and the Europa League in recent years. His past experience at Emirates should also ease things up for the Chelsea attacker and with his contract expiring at the end of the season, Giroud could indeed be a smart coup for Arsenal.