Arsenal's experienced hitman was strongly linked with a move away from the Emirates.

While the Toffees were in the hunt, West Ham were also keen, and Marseille wanted to take him back to Ligue 1.

The club-record signing of Giroud's France team-mate Alexandre Lacazette left his future up in the air.

But Arsene Wenger was keen to retain the 31-year-old's services and he eventually opted to stay.

Giroud claims he chose to prolong his Arsenal career because of his affiliation with the club.

“I was very close to signing for another English club, Everton,” Giroud told Canal Football while away on international duty.

"But I made the best choice I think.

“I stayed because I have a certain attachment to the club, quite simply.

“I am content to have remained. I am well in my head and in my boots.”

Giroud has seen his game time diminish this season.

While he has featured in all seven of Arsenal's Premier League games so far, each time has been from the bench.

With Giroud hoping to make France's squad for the 2018 World Cup, he will have to make a bigger impact as the campaign progresses.

Everton could reportedly reignite their interest in January, although it seems Giroud has now killed off Ronald Koeman's hopes of signing him.