It’s looking increasingly likely that Olivier Giroud is on his way out of Arsenal, writes the Independent. Lyon, in advanced talks with the Gunners over Alexandre Lacazette, admitted they were also in contact with Giroud’s representative.
The French international, 31 in September, knows his game time will be limited if Lacazette – also his rival for a place in the French starting line-up – moves to the Emirates.
Arsenal are reportedly willing to do business at £20m which is a fee that won’t frighten Lyon, who stand to benefit from a £50m+ fee for Lacazette, five years Giroud’s junior.
West Ham United are also interested in the experienced striker who has scored 98 goals in his 226 Arsenal appearances. Increasingly last season, they came from the bench with Arsène Wenger preferring to start with Danny Welbeck.
Giroud was an important member of the Gunners squad which tasted FA Cup glory in May. It was his third cup winners medal, coming off the bench to provide the assist for Aaron Ramsey’s decisive goal in the 2-1 victory over Chelsea.
Signed in 2011 to replace Robin van Persie, Giroud never hit the same heights of prolific goalscoring, undermined by long barren spells which saw confidence seep away.
He never topped twenty league goals in a season at Arsenal but did so twice in his native France, including in a title-winning season with Montpellier. Lyon will look to draw on that experience as they seek a return to the upper echelons of Ligue Un.
