Olivier Giroud reveals he snubbed Chelsea to join Arsenal

Arsenal's new recruit Olivier Giroud (GETTY IMAGES)

France striker Olivier Giroud snubbed a move to Chelsea in favour of joining Arsenal.

Giroud completed his £13million transfer from Montpellier yesterday after rejecting the chance to sign for the Champions League winners.

The in-demand 25-year-old prefers the set-up at Arsenal, including its French influence, and suspected Chelsea manager Roberto Di Matteo knew little about him.

"Why did I choose Arsenal rather than Chelsea?" Giroud told French newspaper L'Equipe. "Because it is a club I love and I thought it would be easier for my adaptation.

"Arsenal is a great club, the facilities are wonderful, but I feel it is a club that takes big care before signing a player, notably considering human values.

"There are French players. There is also Arsene Wenger who let me understand he really wanted me.

"Chelsea is very nice, it is a great club, but I am not convinced Di Matteo knows who I am."

Giroud denies he has been bought by Arsenal as a replacement for Robin van Persie.

Van Persie is stalling over agreeing a new contract with the Gunners and has been strongly linked with a move to Manchester City.

"When you make the decision to join a great club, you know there is already a great forward. I know what to expect," Giroud said.

"Van Persie is a fantastic player who was outstanding last season.

"He has been at Arsenal for eight years and I hope I will have time to adapt and improve. Anyway, I don't go there to take his place."

PA