Transfer Centre

Atletico Madrid eye Chelsea's Olivier Giroud as Diego Costa replacement?

By Ben Knapton, Senior Reporter | 02 January 2021

Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone reportedly identifies Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud as an ideal replacement for the recently-departed Diego Costa.

Atletico Madrid have reportedly identified Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud as an ideal replacement for Diego Costa.

Costa recently had his contract at the Wanda Metropolitano terminated and has been linked with moves to Arsenal and Wolverhampton Wanderers after becoming a free agent.

Meanwhile, Giroud has rediscovered his goalscoring touch in recent weeks, but the 34-year-old can now begin talks with other clubs after entering the final six months of his Chelsea deal.

According to Italian outlet Rai Sport, Atletico manager Diego Simeone has personally earmarked the Blues man as an ideal signing following the departure of former Chelsea striker Costa.

Giroud - who was heavily linked with a move to Serie A in the summer - has previously affirmed that he would like to stay at Stamford Bridge despite finding himself in and out of Frank Lampard's team this term.

The France international has struck nine times in all competitions this term and opened the scoring in the Blues' 1-1 draw with Aston Villa in midweek.