West Ham United could compete with a long list of clubs in order to acquire the services of Olivier Giroud this summer. The French striker is mulling over his future at the Emirates Stadium despite only extending his contract earlier in the year.
Giroud was largely a bench warmer during the start of the 2016/17 season with Arsene Wenger opting to offer him an extended rest after his exploits for France at Euro 2016. However, this became short of a trend as the year went on with Alexis Sanchez leading the line for the north London giants with much success.
The former Montpellier man had been used as a ‘super sub’ who saved the Gunners in crucial periods, and it was not until the festive period, did he earn his first league start of the Premier League campaign.
Even after this, Giroud faced a similar period out of the starting lineup with Danny Welbeck proving to be a capable competitor, although he did not possess a similar threat in front of goal.
Giroud ended the campaign with a notable FA Cup winning assist for the Gunners, and it could well be his last touch in the Gunners shirt with interest from Marseille and a whole host of unnamed Italian clubs.
According to The Mirror, Giroud could be offered another lifeline in the Premier League next term, should he fail to receive assurances of being the first-choice centre-forward.
West Ham United have had the likes of Andy Caroll and Andre Ayew, who have excelled on their day, but there still remains fitness concerns over the pair, who missed key periods of last season.
Giroud has already hinted that he will not be playing second fiddle to anyone, and a route to east London presents him the chance to extend his Premier League career with the guarantee of regular first-team football.
Despite his reduced playing time, Giroud managed to hit double figures for another Premier League season as he bagged 12 goals in the English top flight. He is currently on 98 goals for Arsenal, and the century mark would be a satisfying achievement for a striker, who has always had his critics.
Image – Creative Commons
