The French media are suggesting Marseille and Lyon both want to sign Olivier Giroud this summer, despite the likelihood he’ll remain at the Emirates Stadium.

• Lyon and Marseille want to sign Giroud
• The move would be a coup for Ligue 1 sides

In case you didn’t know, Olivier Giroud has been linked with a move to Marseille and Lyon this summer. As reported by the Guardian, L’Equipe have decided to run the story again, stating that bringing Giroud back would be seen a considerable coup.

The paper says that Ligue 1 is becoming a more attractive destination for players due to the number of high-profile coaches now working there. This could lead to high-profile players being more willing to play there, and bringing France’s first-choice striker back to his native country would be a great place to start.

Giroud is well thought of in France, but a move to either Marseille or Lyon could be difficult financially. Arsenal will want at least £20m for him, while his wage demands would likely be around the £100k-per-week mark. That might just be a step too far for either club. Lyon’s president, Jean-Michael Aulas, has already played down a move.

Marseilles are keen on spending this summer to challenge for the Ligue 1 title, but there’s little to no resale value in Giroud, nor any guarantee he would shine given his preferences to stay in England. Giroud would prefer to remain at Arsenal but might ask to leave if he’s not guaranteed more first-team football next season.