Source: Milan striker Giroud keen to join LAFC

AC Milan striker Olivier Giroud is in talks with LAFC over a potential transfer this summer, with the France international keen on joining last year’s MLS Cup finalists, sources have told ESPN.

While Giroud, whose contract with Milan is due to expire this summer, has also held discussions with other MLS teams, the player’s preference is to join LAFC and hopes a deal can be reached, a source added.

– Stream on ESPN+: LaLiga, Bundesliga, NWSL more (U.S.)

LAFC also holds Giroud’s discovery rights within MLS, meaning it has priority if he moves to the league. Any other club wishing to sign him will also have to negotiate with the Los Angeles club.

LAFC signed Giroud’s former longtime France teammate Hugo Lloris ahead of the 2024 season.

Giroud, 37, is France’s all-time leading scorer with 56 goals. He has spent the past three years at Milan, who he helped to the Serie A title in 2022.

He has enjoyed another stellar campaign in Italy, scoring 12 goals and adding eight assists in 26 Serie A appearances.

Giroud has previously enjoyed spells at Arsenal and Chelsea, as well as multiple French clubs.

At international level, he lifted the 2018 World Cup with France. He also represented the country at two other World Cups and three European Championships.

LAFC has reached the MLS Cup in the past two seasons, defeating the Philadelphia Union in the final in 2022 before suffering defeat to the Columbus Crew last time out.

The club has plenty of roster flexibility heading into the summer, with two designated player spots currently open.