Arsenal scout confirms Olivier Giroud is Robin van Persie's replacement

Arsenal scout Gilles Grimandi has admitted that French striker Olivier Giroud was bought as a direct replacement for Robin van Persie.

The Gunners completed the signing of Giroud from Montpellier last month and Grimandi has confirmed that the purchase was made with Van Persie's impending departure in mind.

"Was the recruitment of Giroud made to compensate for his [Van Persie's] departure? Yes, we worked to avoid being cornered," Grimandi told le10sport.com.

"We want him to stay home but he is left with one year on his contract so it is complicated. At Arsenal, there is a healthy atmosphere, he's been here for eight years and he has a real commitment to the club."

The Netherlands international recently claimed that he will not sign a new contract with the North London outfit.