AC Milan complete signing of Olivier Giroud from Chelsea

AC Milan have completed the signing France striker Olivier Giroud from Chelsea.

The 34-year-old striker struggled for minutes under both Frank Lampard and Thomas Tuchel but had a habit of popping up with vital goals in his rare outings, including six strikes in eight Champions League games – just two of which were starts.

With his playing time limited, Giroud was made available for transfer this summer and spent Friday in Milan finalising a move to the Rossoneri which is expected to earn Chelsea up to £2m.

Giroud posted a message to Chelsea fans on social media as he swaps Stamford Bridge for San Siro.

“To all the Blues, to my teammates, to all my coaches, to the whole club, a huge thank you for these special moments,” he wrote.

“I’m starting a new journey with a light and happy heart. Our victories in the FA Cup, Europa League and Champions League have been magnificent.

“Love, Oli G.”

Giroud becomes the second Chelsea player to join Milan this summer, following centre-back Fikayo Tomori, who was snapped up permanently after an excellent loan spell at San Siro last season.

There could yet be further dealings between the two clubs as Milan are also understood to be keen on midfielders Tiemoue Bakayoko and Hakim Ziyech, both of whom have been made available for transfer this summer.

As first revealed by 90min, Chelsea are preparing themselves for a monster bid for Borussia Dortmund striker Erling Haaland, and the Blues are now looking to trim their squad and raise the £150m needed to get a deal done.

With Chelsea hunting for a new striker, Giroud could also be followed out the exit door by Tammy Abraham, who is valued at £40m and has attracted interest from Arsenal, Aston Villa and West Ham.