Transfer News: La Liga giants eye a January move for in-form Chelsea star

Atletico Madrid interested in Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud

A report by Italian outlet Rai Sport via Football365 (h/t Metro) states that Atletico Madrid are looking at Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud as a replacement for Diego Costa.

Atletico came to an agreement with Costa to terminate his current deal. This means that the Spaniard is a free agent now. And manager Diego Simeone wants to replace Costa at the club.

The bullish striker has been linked with Chelsea’s rival Arsenal and Simeone has also looked in London to find a replacement. Chelsea’s Olivier Giroud is believed to be on Simeone’s list for a transfer in January. (h/t Metro)

Caught in two minds

Giroud has himself struggled for starts at Chelsea, but has been called into action way more in December. The Frenchman has scored all his 3 goals in the league this month but can be enticed to move to Spain.

Atletico lead La Liga on goal difference despite playing two games fewer than 2nd placed Real Madrid. Moreover, the 34-year-old striker is in the last few months of his contract.

Giroud’s contract expires in the summer of 2021. But, Lampard will be cautious to part ways with the former Montpellier striker.

The number of starts Giroud has received in December shows the trust Lampard still has in him. With Timo Werner being out of form, Giroud can also expect more minutes at the club next year.

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The 2018 FIFA World Cup winner has been reliable for the team whenever called into action. It would be a shame if a quality player like him departs the side mid-season.