Aston Villa to sign Chelsea striker?

Aston Villa are reportedly prepared to step up their interest in Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud following the season-ending injury for Wesley.

The Frenchman has not made the matchday squad for the Blues in recent weeks and it is quite clear that he is eyeing a fresh challenge after managing only seven appearances this term.

A switch to Inter Milan has been regularly mentioned over the past few days but Le 10 Sport claims that Giroud could have a Premier League lifeline with Dean Smith's side, who are lacking the quality upfront after Wesley's setback.

Giroud is currently behind Tammy Abraham and Michy Batshuayi in the pecking order for the centre-forward role and a move to the west Midlands outfit will certainly guarantee him with a starting spot.

The former Arsenal man has played no part for the Blues in the past seven weeks. He is valued at around £6m and the club are reluctant to accept anything less for his services even if his contract expires in the summer.