Arsenal Transfer Rumours: Gunners Must Not Overpay for Olivier Giroud

The Gunners are reportedly ready to offer Montpelier striker Olivier Giroud a sizable contract, according to Darren Lewis of Mirror.

Giroud scored 21 goals for Montpelier this season en route to their Ligue I championship. He had a dynamic scorer, leading Ligue I in goals this season, but Arsenal needs to devote their attention elsewhere this offseason.

Let's take a look at why Arsenal should pass on Giroud and where their attention should be instead.

Why Pass on Giroud?

Giroud's goal scoring would benefit Arsenal without a doubt, but will his play translate?

Marouane Chamakh and Gervinho are both former Ligue I strikers. Both were signed by Arsenal and saw their production drop in the English Premier League. Neither were neutralized by the Premier League's rigorous playing style, but both have seen their output decrease significantly.

Giroud is a more accomplished player, but the point stays the same.

The English Premier League is a different animal. Its physical play and blue-collar attitude is different than Ligue I play, forcing some players to make a major adjustment.

The Gunners would be better off chasing a proven attacker from the Premier League. He already knows the style of play and will be ready for the physicality thrown at him each time he sets foot on the pitch.

Who should that attacker be?

I have an idea.

Clint Dempsey

Dempsey is arguably the United States' best soccer player, enjoying a solid career with Fulham since 2007.

Dempsey had 17 goals and six assists this season. He does not have Giroud's finishing ability but is very creative in the open field.

Dempsey is capable of playing wing, attacking midfield or striker. This versatility and playmaking ability would give the Gunners a lot of flexibility in their starting lineup.

Arsenal should take a long, hard look at Dempsey.

He has proven himself for five years in the EPL and is ready to step up with a big-time club.

Instead of overpaying an unproven Giroud, grab Dempsey. He may not be as flashy, or put up gaudy statistics, but he is extremely consistent.

Dempsey would provide a perfect catalyst for the Gunner attack.

Robin Van Persie

The Gunners have banned their star striker from speaking to the media during Euro 2012, but that will not slow the rumors down.

Van Persie is arguably the most dangerous striker the world has to offer. He had 30 goals and nine assists in Premier League play this season.

Arsenal needs to do everything they can to keep Van Persie playing for their side. Chasing Giroud does not set the tone for Van Persie to stay put.

Van Persie may be difficult to sign and expensive himself, but so what?

He is already proven in the Premier League and is the most dangerous attacker in the world when he is healthy.

The Gunners need to fix their attention on Van Persie, keep Dempsey on serious watch and let Giroud go to the next highest bidder.

Arsenal fans do not need to watch another Ligue I bust taking the pitch at Emirates Stadium. The circumstances are totally different, but they have seen too many already.