Italian giants circle as unsettled Arsenal star emerges on their transfer radars

Posted by

Arsenal forward Olivier Giroud is reportedly set to be monitored by both AC Milan and Napoli with a view of making a move in January.

The Frenchman has been restricted to just one start for the Gunners so far this season, through a combination of his own fitness troubles and Alexis Sanchez being in great form as the leading man through the middle.

As noted by The Mirror, that led to a hint of disappointment and frustration from Giroud over his lack of opportunities, but he remains a pivotal part of Arsenal’s plans this season as he offers something that Arsene Wenger’s other options don’t.

With 18 months remaining on his current contract, it would be a surprise to see the French international move on, but Milan and Napoli are expected to keep a close eye on his situation with a view of pouncing in January if a move is a realistic possibility, as reported by the Mirror.

Napoli lost Arkadiusz Milik to a serious knee injury after the Polish forward had made an impressive start to life in Serie A earlier this season, and their lack of firepower needs to be addressed if they have ambitions of staying in the mix.

Meanwhile, Carlos Bacca’s goal-drought has been problematic for Vincenzo Montella’s side, and with Gianluca Lapadula and Luiz Adriano as his other options, he may desire a proven goalscorer at the top level to boost his side’s chances in the second half of the campaign.

It will be interesting to see how Wenger uses Giroud in the weeks ahead as Sanchez has picked up an injury on international duty, which would suggest that the former Montpellier man will have his chances to impress.

In turn, it’s unlikely a transfer will happen in January, but much will depend on how the situation evolves and if Arsenal’s resolve is tested.

More Stories Olivier Giroud