CHELSEA BOSS Frank Lampard has warned Olivier Giroud that he won’t be allowed to leave unless it is “right for the club”.
Speculation is continuing to grow that the out-of-favour Frenchman will exit Stamford Bridge this month.
Olivier Giroud could leave Chelsea this month – as long as it suits the clubCredit: Getty Images – Getty
He is behind Tammy Abraham and Michy Batshuayi in the pecking order, with Blues boss Frank Lampard usually going with just one up top.
Inter Milan are the front-runners for his signature, managed by former Chelsea gaffer Antonio Conte.
But Lampard will only let the 33-year-old leave if it is in the best interests of the club.
Speaking ahead of Chelsea’s Premier League clash against Burnley, Lampard said: “Nothing’s done yet.
“With Ollie [Giroud] the situation is, if it’s right for everybody, and first and foremost that’s us as the club, then we’ll look at whether he can leave the club.
CONTE WANTS REUNION
“He’s been a great professional here, who has continued to train professionally without many opportunities.
“But I still have to make a decision for the football club. Everyone’s talking about it so I’m not going to beat around the bush.
“I think his agent has spoken to the club, but until anything’s done he’s a Chelsea player.”
The French striker has made just five Premier League appearances this season.
Giroud, who Conte signed for Chelsea from Arsenal for £18m two years ago, is reportedly keen on making the move to the San Siro as he sweats over his place in Didier Deschamps’ Euro 2020 squad.
His agent has already met with Inter chiefs and the ball is now in Chelsea’s park.
Fellow benched striker Michy Batshuayi is also keen on trying his luck elsewhere, with Roma interested.
But the Blues will only allow them to move if they can bring in a direct replacement.
Frank Lampard will only allow players to leave Stamford Bridge if it is ‘right’ for the clubCredit: Getty
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
