Olivier Giroud can leave Arsenal if Arsene Wenger first replaces West Ham target amid Mbappe, Lacazette chase

Giroud struggled for starts last season
AFP/Getty Images
Ken Dyer|James Olley14 June 2017

West Ham are preparing a move for Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud as they look to strengthen their attack.

Arsenal are willing to allow Giroud to leave providing they first sign a replacement and West Ham have declared their interest in the 30-year-old, who played for France against England last night (right).

An informal offer from Arsenal of £87million for Monaco’s 18 year-old sensation Kylian Mbappe has been rejected, with Real Madrid apparently ready to bid around £120m.

Arsenal’s preferred alternative option would be Alexandre Lacazette with his club, Lyon, wanting around £60m for the 26 year-old.

West Ham manager Slaven Bilic has prioritised signing attacking players this summer, after his two main strikers, Andy Carroll and Diafra Sakho, were injured for much of last season.

Bilic is keen to add pace to his line-up and although Giroud does not fit that bill he is good in the air and has the strength to hold the ball and bring others into play.

Arsenal would be looking for around £20m for Giroud, who would want £100,000 per week and a long contract.

Carroll is the top earner at West Ham on £100,000 a week so the club would not be breaking their salary cap by signing the striker, who is keen to stay in London.

Arsenal transfer targets for summer 2017

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Giroud was frustrated to start only 11 League matches last season and a move would offer him regular football.

Arsene Wenger is on record as stating he wants him to stay but that would be very difficult were Arsenal to sign a top striker.

West Ham believe the arrival of a proven international - 27 goals in 64 games for France - would be a statement of intent.

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