Giroud: I made Inter Milan move my priority

Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud admits a move to Inter Milan was close in the January transfer window.

Giroud pushed for a move away from Stamford Bridge, having started just two Premier League matches before January.

He said to Telefoot: “I saw myself elsewhere after experiencing six complicated months. I did everything to leave – it’s true.

“Inter was the priority, and there was also contact with Lazio and Tottenham . But circumstances meant that Chelsea blocked it. It was not my choice.”

The attacker – who got his name on the scoresheet in Chelsea’s 4-0 drubbing of Everton on Sunday – even revealed he was in contact with Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas.

He continued: “He did call me. I told him that I was flattered but that the priority, at the time, was Inter.”

“After [the move did not happen], either you die or you go back to battle to win your place,” he explained.

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“The coach had promised me more playing time, which he did [provide].”