Arsenal Transfer Rumors: Olivier Giroud Would Bring Club Back to the Top of EPL

Arsenal fans accept nothing less than a first-place finish in the English Premier League, and Olivier Giroud is exactly the player to get them there.

ESPN reports that Arsenal is very close to signing the French striker for a fee of close to £13 million. If this happens, the club would immediately be one of the most dangerous in the league.

Behind 30 goals by Robin van Persie, Arsenal was third in the EPL in goals scored. This is impressive considering how little help van Persie received throughout the year. Theo Walcott was second on the team with eight.

The Dutch striker is one of the best scorers in the world, but it is almost impossible to carry a team all by himself.

Fortunately, the club is making moves to give its star player some talent around him. They have already brought in German forward Lukas Podolski, whose experience at the club level and internationally should help the team against tough competition.

The addition of Giroud, however, could be enough to put the team over the top.

He was a key contributor to Montpellier as they won the French League Championship, scoring 21 goals for the club and has the skill to improve upon that number with more help.

Between Giroud, Podolski and van Persie, Arsenal would have one of the best front lines in the Barclays Premier League, possibly the world.

The club still needs to improve its defense, as it was only eighth in the league in goals allowed, but a new attacking style will be enough to overcome any deficiencies as they simply outscore any opponent.

Arsenal is one of the best clubs in the history of the EPL, but they have not won a title since 2004. It is time they returned to their rightful place on top of the league standings.