Everton scout Carlo Jacomuzzi has claimed the Toffees will sign Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud.

• Giroud could leave the club following Lacazette arrival
• Everton believe they can sign him for £20m
• Scout has claimed a deal will be done

Giroud will be leaving Arsenal this summer to join Everton. At least, that’s according to reports from the Express that claim that a £20m move could be completed by the end of this week.

This is based on alleged quotes from Everton scout Carlo Jacomuzzi who was discussing Everton’s proposed move for Napoli striker Duvan Zapata. “We are going to sign Giroud for £20m – a bargain compared to the €25m being asked for Zapata,” quotes the Express.

While it is possible that Giroud could leave, Jacomuzzi’s comments sound more like an attempt to force Napoli to reduce their asking price for Zapata rather than a revelation that a Giroud move is imminent.

The Arsenal striker will face stiff competition from Lacazette next season but has said he wants to continue his journey with the Gunners. West Ham, Marseille and Lyon are all believed to be interested.

Everton have been hyperactive in the market so far, already signing five players for a combined £100m. They could want to sign Giroud in preparation for Romelu Lukaku’s expected departure to Chelsea.