Olivier Giroud could be on the verge of joining AC Milan from Chelsea as the Frenchman seeks regular playing time.
According to journalist Roy D, AC Milan could be on the verge of agreeing on a move for Olivier Giroud. The French forward was expected to leave Stamford Bridge searching for regular first-team football, as Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel plans massive changes to his forward line.
AC Milan were always the frontrunners for Giroud after being linked with the frontman towards the end of last season. Giroud was expected to join the Rossoneri on a free transfer, only for Chelsea to trigger a one-year contract extension in the Frenchman’s deal. Due to that, the Blues will be able to command a nominal transfer fee from Milan.
How much Milan would pay Chelsea remains undisclosed, but the fee is expected to be nominal at best. Milan have had an eye on Giroud for quite some time. After finishing in Champions League positions for the first time in many years, the Rossoneri wanted an experienced forward without costing them too much.
If a move to Milan transpires, Giroud will bid his farewell to English football after nine years. The Frenchman has played more than 370 games for Arsenal and Chelsea during his stay in England, winning major honours including FA Cups, Europa League and the Champions League.
With Thomas Tuchel at the helm at Chelsea, the German tactician wants to refresh his striker options somewhat. Last season the west Londoners acquired Kai Havertz and Timo Werner and successfully won the Champions League. Chelsea are hopeful of signing Erling Haaland in this window and need to make room for the Norwegian.
Alongside Giroud, fellow striker Tammy Abraham is also expected to leave as Tuchel does not consider the English frontman part of his plans. If both those forwards depart, Chelsea will have plenty of room for another striker.
Giroud will consider his time with Chelsea a glowing success. The forward also got his real chance with France and became a mainstay in Didier Deschamps’ side during his tenure at Stamford Bridge, winning the World Cup in 2018. However, the striker, despite being 34 years old, still has plenty left to offer.
Hence the veteran forward is open to a new challenge in Italy with Milan to test himself in a new league. It will be interesting to see how he combines with Milan’s in-house veteran striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic. The Rossoneri will be hoping to compete for the Scudetto and go deep in next season’s Champions League.
