Arsene Wenger desperate for Giroud extension

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has revealed that he is eager to prolong Oliver Giroud's stay at the Emirates. The France international has 18 months on his existing contract.

Recent speculation suggested the 30-year-old could be heading for a winter exit with Napoli and Inter Milan among his key admirers.

However, this has since been ruled out by his agent who feels the Frenchman is content buying his time at the North London giants.

Prior to the Gunners' 3-1 over Stoke City, Wenger admitted that Giroud remains a key player in the club's title pursuit, and would want the player to commit his future on a long-term basis.

Despite his success coming off the substitutes' bench, Giroud has yet to earn a league start for the Premier League leaders this season.