France can thank Milan for giving Olivier Giroud ‘a new lease of life’ in his career, but the agent who worked on his move from Chelsea reveals Antonio Conte was desperate to sign him for Inter.
The 36-year-old is currently playing in the World Cup semi-final for Les Bleus against Morocco and with four goals is also challenging for the Golden Boot as top scorer.
It’s all a consequence of the form he rediscovered following the 2021 move to Milan from Chelsea for under €3m, but things were almost very different indeed.
“Giroud was on the verge of signing for Inter,” revealed intermediary Vincenzo Morabito to Il Giornale newspaper.
He worked on the deal that brought the France international to Milan in the summer of 2021, so knew what was happening behind the scenes.
“Conte tried absolutely everything he could to bring Giroud to Inter, but we failed to reach an agreement with Chelsea. A few months later, Milan turned up and finally we were able to bring him to Italy.
“Giroud has a new lease of life with the Rossoneri, as he has found the natural habitat he needs to enjoy his football and be a leader.
“Coming to Milan extended his career.”
The centre-forward certainly made an impact, winning the Serie A title in his debut season.
Since arriving 18 months ago, Giroud has scored 23 goals in 57 competitive appearances for the club, also providing nine assists.
Shame he didn’t score his fifth. He deserves the golden boot over Messi and his 3 penalties imo.