Newcastle to challenge Aston Villa for Chelsea outcast

 

Newcastle manager Steve Bruce wants to hand Olivier Giroud a way out of his Chelsea misery this month, claims The Daily Telegraph.

 

Frank Lampard has already confirmed Giroud could move on during the January transfer window but only if a replacement is signed first.

 

Giroud has dropped completely out of favour under Lampard this season and has even fallen below Michy Batshuayi in the pecking order.

 

The 33-year-old is concerned a lack of playing time at Chelsea will cost him a place in France's squad for Euro 2020.

 

Giroud has been restricted to just five Premier League appearances this season and hasn't featured for the Blues in any competition since the end of November.

 

Aston Villa are understood to be keen on signing the veteran following Wesley's season-ending injury but they face competition from relegation rivals Newcastle.

 

Newcastle to challenge Aston Villa for Chelsea outcast

 

 

Bruce wants to sign another striker this month to ease the burden on club-record signing Joelinton, who has really struggled to get going this season.

 

The 23-year-old has managed just one goal from 32 shots in the Premier League this season and wasted a couple of golden opportunities in their FA Cup third round draw with League One outfit Rochdale.