Everton: Are they genuinely interested in Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud?
By Paul Taylor
Everton are reportedly preparing to offer £20 million, in an attempt to secure the services of French international Olivier Giroud.
You can make a compelling argument that Leicester City winning the title a couple of years ago, was the best thing that ever happened to the Premier League. While it may well have been a one-off set of circumstances, other clubs outside “the big five”, including Everton, have renewed optimism that they can compete.
Whether it’s challenging for the title or the top four, additional fan bases have been given extra reason to invest time and money in their favourite team. And based on the last few weeks, Evertonians are likely leading the way. (Not that the club has ever struggled for support.)
As such, it shouldn’t really come as much of a surprise, when faced by the latest speculation surrounding Everton on Sunday morning. As per a report from the Mirror, the Blues are apparently preparing to make a bid for Olivier Giroud.
The Mirror goes on to write that Everton will offer £20 million, as they join the competition for Giroud services. Other clubs believed to be interested, include West Ham United and Marseille.
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The fact the Arsenal striker is even — theoretically at least — available, is in part due to him falling out of favour last season. Despite appearing in 29 league games, only 11 of those were starts.
However, Giroud still managed to score 12 goals (and 16 in all competitions). Further, as reported by the Independent‘s Samuel Lovett, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger recently said the club “need” him.
Regardless, the 30-year old’s overall appearances and goals in 2016/17, were his lowest since joining Arsenal five seasons ago. And while the player himself has claimed he’s had no thoughts about leaving the Gunners, you imagine he would like the opportunity to start regularly.
Another aspect which could influence Giroud’s thinking, is the news that Arsenal are preparing to sign Alexandre Lacazette or Kylian Mbappe. If either striker moves to London, this will further compromise the Chambéry, France native’s opportunities to play regularly.
With all this in mind, it becomes ever more clear why Everton fancy their chances of landing the French international, who has scored 27 times in 64 appearances for his country. The Blues’ biggest challenge will likely come from Marseille, who have the financial clout and can offer Giroud the opportunity to move back home to France.
Next: Is Romelu Lukaku right to leave Everton?
What do you make of Everton’s reported interest in Giroud? Would £20 million be a reasonable transfer fee? Do you even want to seem him playing regularly at Goodison Park? Share your thoughts in the comments section.