Reports have emerged today that Arsène Wenger is set to reward French compatriot Olivier Giroud with a brand new contract, extending the forwards stay at the club until at least 2018.

L’staying

Trusted French newspaper L’Equipe believe that Giroud’s current contract expires in 2016, but his much-improved form has sped up negotiations on a new deal with an undisclosed pay rise.

After months of speculation over the striker’s future, due to his behaviour off the field, it is thought that Wenger has persuaded the player to continue his progress in North London with the Gunners.

Red and white forward

The player himself hinted in April to TF1 that he is very much focused on playing in red and white for the foreseeable future and mentioned that a new contract was a huge possibility.

“A lot of things were said. I'm still happy in London and with Arsenal and think I will be in the future.

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."

Wel L’equipped

Despite signing Alexis Sanchez for £35 million this month, many supporters speculated that Arsenal would add another forward to their squad in the form of Mario Balotelli.

The Arsenal manager however has consistently refuted the transfer talk and is adamant that his side is well equipped in the forward department for the new campaign.

The full French international scored 23 goals in all competitions last season and with the addition of another creative player in the form of Sanchez, he is likely to get more when leading the line next season.

The prodigy

At only 27-years-old, Giroud has plenty of years to assert himself as the dominant striker in the Premier League and playing at Arsenal under Wenger can only enhance these prospects.

Regardless, adding another out and out striker cannot harm the team, as it will take the pressure off Giroud, thus improving his performances in the long-term.

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