Transfer Centre

AC Milan forward Olivier Giroud 'open to return to London'

By Darren Plant, Senior Reporter | 27 February 2023

Milan forward Giroud 'open to return to London'

AC Milan forward Olivier Giroud is reportedly open to a return to London when his contract at San Siro expires in the summer.

AC Milan forward Olivier Giroud may reportedly consider a return to London during the summer transfer window.

Since departing Chelsea for San Siro in 2021, Giroud has enjoyed one of the best phases of his career, helping Milan win the Serie A title in his first campaign.

In total, the 36-year-old has contributed 25 goals and 10 assists from 69 outings for I Rossoneri, form which helped him star for France during the recent World Cup.

However, Giroud's contract with Milan expires at the end of the season and he is yet to pen a renewal with the Italian giants.

The veteran has recently stated that his preference is to sign a fresh deal with Milan and end his career at the club.

France forward Olivier Giroud celebrates scoring against Poland at the World Cup on December 4, 2022 © Reuters

Nevertheless, while a contract remains unsigned, Giroud remains in a position where he can hold discussions with teams outside of Italy.

According to The Sun, Giroud would give consideration to another stint in London if he does not stay at Milan.

Giroud spent nine years in England's capital with Arsenal and the Blues before he was allowed to leave Stamford Bridge on the back of their Champions League triumph.

Although a return to either club is unlikely and representing Tottenham Hotspur is realistically out of the question, other London clubs are allegedly interested in his signature.

West Ham United manager David Moyes pictured on January 21, 2023 © Reuters

The report suggests that Fulham, Brentford, Crystal Palace and West Ham United would all be open to signing a player of Giroud's stature on a free transfer.

Aside from Palace, each of those three clubs are bidding to earn European football for 2023-24, with Fulham and Brentford battling for a top-seven finish in the Premier League.

While West Ham find themselves just outside of the relegation zone, David Moyes's side are in the last 16 of the Europa Conference League, with victory in that competition leading to qualification for the Europa League.

Meanwhile, Palace have been short of goals this season and are managed by Patrick Vieira, an Arsenal legend and French compatriot of Giroud.