New France international star on Manchester United radar

After a blistering campaign in which he fired Montpellier to a first Ligue 1 title, Olivier Giroud is now attracting the interest of one of the world’s biggest clubs in Manchester United.

Giroud enjoyed somewhat of a breakthrough season last term, hitting 25 goals in all competitions as he finally demonstrated his ability to perform at the top level in France.

International honours followed in recognition of his performances, and this is a contributory factor to Sir Alex Ferguson wishing to tie up a deal for the forward sooner rather than later.

The 25-year-old attacker is currently valued at around £20million by his current club, though Ferguson fears that an impressive Euro 2012 could see that valuation rocket.

His concerns regarding the possibility of an eye-catching major tournament are not unfounded, as proved by Giroud’s debut goal in France’s trip to Germany earlier this year.

Ferguson is keen to bolster his attacking options as both Dimitar Berbatov and Michael Owen look set to move on this summer, whilst Javier Hernandez’ seasonal form nose-dived last term.

The legendary Scot sees Giroud as an ideal foil for Wayne Rooney, with the Frenchman’s imposing physical presence a perfect complement to the England striker’s deep-lying style.

Montpellier are resigned to losing their star player, though, in contrast to United, may wish to stretch out the transfer saga throughout the summer.

For the same reasons United want to do business quickly, it would make sense for the French outfit to wait on Giroud’s performance in Poland and Ukraine to try and gain as big a fee as possible for the striker.

Club president Laurent Nicollin has stated he will not accept less than £20million for the former Tours man’s services, and he is certainly a man of his word.

This was proved when, as promised, he adopted a mohawk-style haircut in Montpellier’s colours in the aftermath of their Ligue 1 success this week.