Arsenal Transfer News: Olivier Giroud Cannot Replace Robin Van Persie

Arsenal reported that they have acquired French forward Olivier Giroud, but without Robin van Persie the team will be much worse.

Van Persie has been rumored to be on his way out of Arsenal. IB Times stated that the Dutch star could be headed to Juventus, while The Telegraph reported that Manchester City is ready to make an offer.

The Gunners need to make sure this does not happen.

Arsenal has had a busy transfer window. They acquired German forward Lukas Podolski to bolster the team's offense. Then, the addition of Giroud gives them potentially the best front line in the English Premier League.

Unfortunately, without van Persie the team will not be able to contend for a title.

The Dutch forward led the entire league with 30 goals last season. He added seven more in non-league games with the team. Theo Walcott was next on the team with 11 goals during the year.

If he decides to leave for another club, it will leave a gaping hole in the lineup that might be irreplaceable. Podolski and Giroud have the talent to help a good team become better, but they cannot carry a team by themselves.

Arsenal's offense is already far behind Manchester United and Manchester City, losing one of the best scorers in the world will not make up for it.

Manager Arsene Wenger does not believe his star is leaving. "He will stay at Arsenal. There is no reason why a top player, a big champion would want a move to Serie A—in terms of the prestige of the league, the level of play or financial considerations."

Still, the addition of two quality forwards might simply be foreshadowing of a single big departure. If that is the case, Arsenal will be in trouble.