Chelsea’s search for a striker has led them to Olivier Giroud, with the Blues now ready to go after the Frenchman. Stamford Bridge has emerged as a possible destination for the 31-year-old as he will find playing time more difficult to come by upon Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s imminent arrival.
The North London club has reportedly agreed on a club-record deal for the Dortmund ace, which is expected to be completed in the next couple of days. This means he will likely fall behind Aubaameyang and Lacazette in the pecking order in a World Cup year.
A move to the Signal Iduna Park is on the table, as it will see the Gunners ship their striker abroad rather than lose him to a direct rival. However, Giroud is reportedly against a move to the Bundesliga, as his preference is to remain in London.
Conte is in search of a forward with excellent strength, a box which the Gunners ace ticks. Chelsea was initially confident of signing Edin Dzeko from Roma but has been forced to explore other options after seeing that move fall apart.
The Emirates Stadium side is willing to cash in on the Frenchman. Wenger’s side wants $49m for Giroud, a fair price in this inflated market, with the Telegraph reporting that Arsene could give his Chelsea move the green light if the Blues match their asking price. Another factor in this transfer is BVB’s unwillingness to sanction Aubameyang’s sale before finding a replacement.
Dortmund has contacted the Blues over Michy Batshuayi’s availability due to Giroud’s reluctance to accept a Bundesliga move. Chelsea, however, will not entertain the thought of loaning the Belgian unless they sign a striker.
This means the former Montpellier goalscorer could be the key to Aubameyang’s Arsenal arrival. Only time will tell whether Chelsea makes a concrete bid for the Frenchman and whether Le Prof will accept to strengthen a direct rival for the second time in one month.
