Chelsea reportedly made a breakthrough in their Olivier Giroud chase. The London outfit is in search of a powerful striker and has identified the Frenchman as a target despite him playing for a direct rival.
According to L’Equipe, Conte’s side even agreed terms with the 31-year-old. It comes as little surprise that the Frenchman is open to a Stamford Bridge move. With Aubameyang set to arrive at the Emirates Stadium before the window shuts close, Giroud must leave for more playing time in this crucial World Cup year.
The Blues reportedly bid $28m for the former Montpellier ace. The North London club eventually accepted that offer, but according to L’Equipe, that bid was no longer on the table by the time the Gunners agreed to it.
The French tabloid states that Wenger’s side took too long to accept that proposal that Chelsea had already taken it back before Arsenal said yes. However, that does not mean Conte’s interest in Olivier.
In fact, L’Equipe writes that talks re-opened on Monday night ahead of a possible move. Last season’s Premier League champion is not the only team after the Frenchman, as the likes of Dortmund and Monaco are also keen on acquiring his services.
Giroud agreed terms with #CFC who bid €20m. #AFC, after long delay, accepted yesterday only to be told offer no longer on table (L'Equipe)
— Matt Spiro (@mattspiro) January 30, 2018
Report says talks b/w #CFC & #AFC re-opened last night. Monaco, like BVB, keen. But Giroud wants London & faces 'longest 48 hrs of his life'
— Matt Spiro (@mattspiro) January 30, 2018
Shipping the Arsenal forward off to the Bundesliga or Ligue 1 would be best for the League Cup finalist. On the other, selling Giroud to Chelsea could clear Batshuayi to join BVB which in return would speed up Aubameyang’s Emirates Stadium arrival.
