Man Utd 'test the waters' with audacious Olivier Giroud transfer approach
Manchester United have reportedly reached out over a potential move for AC Milan striker Olivier Giroud.
Giroud, 36, enjoyed prolific spells in the Premier League for both Arsenal and Chelsea before moving overseas to Milan back in the summer of 2021. The veteran, who became France's all-time leading international goalscorer during the World Cup last month, helped fire the Italian giants to the Serie A title last term but has just six months remaining on his current deal.
The AC Milan ace is 'expecting' to receive a fresh offer to extend his stay in Italy. However, that has not deterred surprise interest from United, who are hoping to acquire a striker on loan in the January transfer window.
After United's interest emerged on Tuesday morning, Foot Mercato have confirmed that the Old Trafford hierarchy have indeed 'tested the waters' over a potential deal for Giroud - although the report does stress that things 'haven’t necessarily gone any further' than that.
Reports in the United States have also claimed that Giroud has turned down a contract offer from AC Milan and that interested clubs in the MLS are ready to pounce if a fresh extension offer does not materialise in the coming weeks.
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Manchester United are light on attacking options after parting company with Cristiano Ronaldo last month but are not in a position to shell out big money in January after spending in excess of £250million revamping their squad last summer.
Speaking prior to Tuesday night's match against Bournemouth, Erik ten Hag confirmed that United are in the market for attacking reinforcements. He did, however, hint that only temporary deals would be realistic after insisting that the club are not in a position to "burn money".
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Erik ten Hag has admitted United would like to sign a new striker this month (Getty Images)The Dutchman said: “I think we have a good team when all the players are available. But with many games coming up, I think there is a need [for a striker]. But you need one who can have an impact, otherwise you are just burning money and you don’t strengthen the squad and it doesn’t help you.”
At present, Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford are United's only recognised senior strikers following Ronaldo's bitter departure. However, Martial has a chequered injury history and there are concerns over the Frenchman's fitness.
Manchester United have also been heavily linked with Atletico Madrid forward Joao Felix, who is expected to leave Spain this month after falling out with Diego Simeone.
Atletico's demands, which reportedly include a £13m loan fee and £5.6m to cover Felix's wages for the remainder of the season, have deterred interest from United and other suitors, such as Arsenal.
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