Olivier Giroud "convinced" Arsenal can challenge

New Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud is confident that the Gunners can challenge for trophies this season.

The Frenchman, who signed for the North London outfit from Ligue 1 side Montpellier in June, has admitted that he is comfortable with Arsenal being underdogs heading into the new campaign.

"With Arsenal, we might not be favourites, like the Manchester clubs, to be champions," Giroud told the club's official website.

"We're outsiders, but I'm convinced that we can do something big. That's what we did with Montpellier, and I'm proud with what I accomplished there."

Meanwhile, an Italian agent has claimed that Gunners striker Robin van Persie is closing in on a move to Juventus.