Olivier Giroud ArsenalGetty

'I'm still an Arsenal player' - Giroud plays down transfer speculation

Olivier Giroud has admitted he is not sure what will happen regarding his future at Arsenal, but is prepared to face the pressure if he stays at the club.

The Gunners signed Alexandre Lacazette for a club record £52 million from Lyon and he is expected to be Arsene Wenger's first-choice striker next season, meaning Giroud faces a battle for a place in the team.

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Giroud started just 11 Premier League games last season, but scored 12 goals in 29 league appearances for Arsenal.

However, the arrival of his fellow Frenchman could see those starts further reduced, and it has been speculated he may leave the club.

West Ham and Everton have both been linked, but the 30-year-old is adamant that he does not know if he will move during the transfer window.

"Honestly, I don't know at the moment but I'm still an Arsenal player so I try to be professional like I always have done and prepare well for next season," Giroud told reporters.

"Obviously there will be more competition, even more than last year, but it's always nice for a striker to feel the pressure. I always deal with it.

"I've been through some difficulties these last years but I always succeed to bounce back. This one, I don't know. This year I don't know about my future so I can't tell you more. I'm focused on pre-season."

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