Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud has reportedly been earmarked as the top target for Marseille ahead of this summer’s transfer window.
The France international has had a frustrating time at the Emirates this term with manager Arsene Wenger utilising the services of Alexis Sanchez upfront for most of the campaign.
According to Sky Sports News, Marseille are prepared to lure the 30-year-old back to Ligue 1 despite having only inked an extension earlier in the year and are ready to pay £20m for his services.
Les Phoceens owner Franck McCourt has already showcased his spending might with the re-signing of Dimitri Payet from West Ham United in January, and he will seek to add more quality to the squad ahead of a potential title challenge next season.
Giroud has often been used as a late substitute in games this term, but he has nevertheless managed to amass an impressive tally of 13 goals across all competitions.
Since arriving from Montpellier in the summer of 2012, the Frenchman has emerged as the leading striker for the FA Cup finalists, and he is fast closing on the 100-goal mark – something which would be a proud achievement for any player representing the Gunners.
Meanwhile, responding to the ongoing speculation, Gunners boss Arsene Wenger has seemingly ruled out the player’s sale by highlighting his desire to keep hold of his fellow compatriot.
The long-standing manager has also insisted that Marseille are yet to lodge a potential attempt for his striker, who has made 14 starts for the club this term.
“I have had no approach from Marseille and we want to keep Olivier Giroud at the club,” Wenger said in his pre-match press conference ahead of the Leicester City game.
Giroud has recently regained his place in the first XI with Wenger opting for a fresh 3-4-2-1 formation, which has resulted in victories over Middlesbrough and Manchester City – the latter of which being in the FA Cup semi-final.
