Nicollin hopeful of Giroud stay

14 April 2012 19:38

Montpellier president Louis Nicollin has stated that star striker Olivier Giroud could stay at the club beyond the end of this season.

The forward is currently the leading scorer in Ligue 1 with 19 goals and has reportedly attracted the interest of Bayern Munich and Arsenal.

Montpellier currently hold a three-point lead over Paris Saint-Germain at the top of the Ligue 1 table, and Nicollin believes the lure of Champions League football may be enough to keep the striker.

"He's a clever guy. One more season at Montpellier, especially in the Champions League, won't stop him from earning more money in the future," Nicollin told RMC.

"It's possible he'll stay. He has a good attitude - really remarkable."

However, Nicollin did admit he would be tempted to sell Giroud and playmaker Younes Belhanda if the price was right.

"If we're offered a lot of money, Giroud and Belhanda will go," he said.

Montpellier are back in Ligue 1 action on Sunday when they face an away trip to Lorient.