Arsenal star Olivier Giroud becomes Everton’s top summer target as Ronald Koeman looks to continue spending spree
EVERTON will step up their interest in Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud as they look to continue their spending spree.
Toffees boss Ronald Koeman is eyeing a new front man with Romelu Lukaku inching closer to the exit door.
And with the Gunners splashing out a club record £52million on striker Alexandre Lacazette, Koeman is increasingly confident he can land Giroud in a £20million deal.
Everton have wasted no time in improving their squad this summer having spent just under £100million on the likes of Michael Keane, Davy Klaassen and Jordan Pickford.
But signing a striker remains a top priority for Everton ahead of the new season.
Giroud made just 11 league starts for Arsenal last season and his place is further under threat following the arrival of French compatriot Lacazette.
Koeman believes he can lure Giroud to the club with the promise of regular first-team football but the striker may need to take a pay cut.
And he may not be the only forward on his way to Everton with Wayne Rooney lined up for a sensational switch back to his boyhood club.
Everton transfer news
Rooney, 31, has been withdrawn from the Manchester United squad that will head to the USA on Sunday for their pre-season tour.
Sources close to both clubs say the move is on and the word from Old Trafford last night was that the deal was all but done.
And it could pave for Lukaku to reunite with Jose Mourinho at United in a deal that could reach a staggering £100m.