Chelsea ready to offload French striker in January

Chelsea are reportedly prepared to sanction the sale of striker Olivier Giroud when the transfer window reopens at the beginning of next year.

The Frenchman has barely featured for the Blues in recent months and he is clearly behind Tammy Abraham and Michy Batshuayi in the selection order.

As a result, the marksman has already voiced his concern over the situation and The Telegraph claims that he could be permitted to head through the exit door in the New Year.

West Ham United and Crystal Palace are among the Premier League sides credited with an interest in the Frenchman but the striker may also consider a return to his homeland with Lyon said to be one of the admirers.

Giroud has managed just 20 minutes of Premier League action since the end of August. He has found himself unused in a number of games with manager Frank Lampard tending to favour Batshuayi for a cameo role off the bench.