Giroud deal close

Arsenal are close to securing the signing of Montpellier striker Oliver Giroud after meeting his release clause.

A deal worth €12m is thought to be in the offing which would trigger the front-man’s release clause.

Giroud now looks set to complete his move to the Emirates Stadium upon the culmination of Euro 2012, after the French champions confirmed negotiations are progressing.

"Discussions are happening and going well, as part of the (release) clause set. Things are moving serenely," Montpellier's deputy president Laurent Nicollin said in Midi Libre.