Olivier Giroud agrees Lille move from MLS | OneFootball

Olivier Giroud has reached an agreement to join Lille, marking a sensational return to French football more than a decade after leaving Ligue 1.

The 38-year-old, who spent the past year with Los Angeles FC in Major League Soccer, is close to finalising a one-year contract with Lille, with an option for an additional season.

Giroud is expected to terminate his LAFC deal early, with his current contract set to run until December and an option for 2026 still on the table.

Talks have been ongoing between the player and both clubs, and only minor administrative steps remain before the move is made official.

The former Arsenal and Chelsea striker struggled to meet expectations in MLS, scoring just five times in 37 appearances across all competitions.

Despite winning the US Open Cup and featuring in the Club World Cup with LAFC, Giroud has not made the expected impact in the United States.

With LAFC reportedly exploring the option of signing Thomas Muller, the Frenchman has opted to seek a fresh start back in Europe.

Lille have identified Giroud as the ideal replacement for Jonathan David, who departed the club on a free transfer earlier this summer.

The northern outfit finished fifth in Ligue 1 last season, securing a place in the Europa League and prompting a reshuffle in their attacking options.

Giroud will return to Ligue 1 for the first time since his title-winning campaign with Montpellier in 2011/12.

That breakout season led to his transfer to Arsenal, where he began a successful run in English football that also included a Champions League triumph with Chelsea.

Now set to work under Bruno Genesio, Giroud boasts a wealth of experience, including a World Cup win with France in 2018 and a record 57 international goals.

His arrival at Lille signals both a tactical addition and a statement of ambition, as the club bids to combine continental experience with youth development in the new campaign.

Barring any late twists, Giroud’s return to French football is imminent.