AC Milan join Inter Milan, Inter Miami in Giroud interest — reports

Two of the clubs recently linked with a potential January move for Olivier Giroud, Inter Milan and Inter Miami, have both started to intensify their efforts to sign the World Cup winner, who Chelsea are reportedly willing to let go as a sign of goodwill for his services to the team.

Writing for Calciomercato, Fabrizio Romano claims that Antonio Conte is “obsessed” with the idea of signing a physical centre forward, and Giroud is right at the top of his wishlist. Inter Milan were left wanting for depth during Romelu Lukaku’s recent injury — Andrea Pinaminto appears to be out of favor — and Conte doesn’t want a repeat of that situation anytime soon. However, the situation is also contingent financially on the Nerazzurri being able to qualify for the Champions League round of 16.

Over in USA, David Beckham’s Inter Miami are devising a plan of their own to entice the 34-year-old to retire to MLS switch continents. According to El Futbolero, Miami plan on making Giroud the second-highest paid player on the roster after Gonzalo Higuaín, with Beckham apparently even willing to buy him a mansion in one of the upscale areas of Miami city.

Meanwhile, according to Quotidano Sportivo (via TMW), both the Inter clubs will face fresh competition from the current Serie A leaders, AC Milan, with the Rossoneri prioritizing a move for a deputy to Zlatan Ibrahimović after his injury. Their first back-up striker, Rafael Leão, is also injured so Ante Rebić is currently leading the line for them. Milan are also looking at Arkadiusz Milik and Mariano Diaz, in addition to Giroud.

With such a plethora of clubs interested, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see Giroud finally move on, although his next destination will only become clearer in coming weeks.