As Chelsea continue to bounce around a series of tall, strapping centre-forwards, the latest reports suggest they are interested in Arsenal’s Olivier Giroud.
Chelsea’s seemingly desperate quest to bring in another centre-forward this January has been comical. The Blues have been linked with almost every active striker that is over 6 feet tall and has scored a goal at some point in the last six months. However, the latest rumour is something to get excited about. Apparently, Chelsea are interested in Olivier Giroud.
According to the Mirror, the West Londoners are looking to take advantage of the Frenchman’s stagnant situation.
"Chelsea are considering a move to persuade Olivier Giroud to swap the Emirates for Stamford Bridge…It is understood the possibility of Giroud has now been explored as an alternative."
Giroud has fallen out of favour at the Emirates in recent times. He was linked with a departure last summer, but nothing materialised. After failing to force his way back into the starting line-up this season, the Frenchman is thought to be more open to a move.
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For Chelsea, this could be a fantastic deal. The striker is 31-years-old, but he has a track-record as a proven goalscorer. Moreover, he combines his strength and stature with a deft touch and ability to finish.
In terms of returns, he has tallied over ten Premier League goals in each season since his arrival. He scored 12 times last season, but he only started 11 out of his 29 appearances.
In this campaign, he has netted on just four occasions. Again, though, he has started just once all season. He has been in fine form for France, meanwhile, scoring four goals in three starts.
Antonio Conte has absolutely no faith in Michy Batshuayi and thus a new striker is vital. Alvaro Morata needs competition for his place and Conte needs someone he can trust. Giroud would come to Stamford Bridge with a point to prove.
With only 18 months left on his contract, the Blues could be able to strike a deal on favourable terms. The Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil situations saw Arsenal desperate to save face. Less pride is likely to be involved in this deal and they should be more willing to cash in.
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What do you think? In a world of Ashley Barnes and Andy Carroll, wouldn’t Giroud be a fantastic coup? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!