Arsenal Transfer Rumors: Olivier Giroud Signing Would Seriously Bolster Attack

For a moment, let's all presume that Robin van Persie will return to the Emirates next season, because I am an optimist and it's what I choose to believe.

If that is the case, the addition of Olivier Giroud will make the Gunners attack downright frightening next season. His addition is looking likely at this point. From Jeremy Wilson of The Telegraph:

"

Telegraph Sport revealed in April that Arsène Wenger had asked for regular scouting reports on Giroud and, having followed that interest up with a formal bid, it is understood that the two clubs are now completing the paperwork on the deal. Barring any unexpected late hitches, Giroud will become an Arsenal player.

"

Now, the primary function of Giroud in the event RVP remains will be as the backup striker, a position where the Gunners could use some more useful depth. Van Persie deserves a break now and again, after all, and Arsenal's offense need not disappear when he gets one.

But we could also see Arsene Wenger get a bit creative at times, moving RVP to the wing and playing Giroud at striker. Add Lukas Podolski to the front three, and you suddenly have a trio of forwards extremely capable of finding the back of the net.

Just take a look at what the three were able to do last season, alongside Arsenal's second-leading goal-scorer from a year ago, Theo Walcott:

Player	Club	Appearances	Goals	Assists
Robin van Persie	Arsenal	47	36	9
Lukas Podolski	FC Cologne	31	18	8
Olivier Giroud	Montpellier	41	24	9
Theo Walcott	Arsenal	48	9	9

Surely, Arsenal would benefit from the addition of these consistent goal-scoring options. And if Gervinho can improve upon a so-so debut campaign and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain continues his progression, this squad could have a true spoil of riches in the attacking third.

Yes, this team could still use another solid defensive player or strong holding midfielder, there's no questioning that.

But so long as Arsenal are going to try to dominate possession and keep the game open, they need a variety of goal-scoring options rather than simply relying on RVP.

Podolski and Giroud offer that. So long as van Persie remains, 2012 looks like a promising season for the Gunners.

Hit me up on Twitter—my tweets really wanted to have another.