Olivier Giroud closing in on LAFC move in deal that could spell end to glittering France career | OneFootball

Giroud could become the latest high-profile name to move to MLS

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Former Chelsea and Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud is closing in on a move to Los Angeles FC on an 18-month deal.

The 37-year-old is expected to leave AC Milan when his contract expires this summer, despite the Italian giants being keen to keep him for another season.

France’s all-time leading goalscorer has spoken to multiple MLS clubs, but LAFC have progressed ahead of their rivals.

Giroud is likely to link up with his former international goalkeeper Hugo Lloris, who joined LAFC from Tottenham last year.

Giroud's move is part of a series of high-profile recruits for the MLS after Lionel Messi joined Inter Miami last summer.

The move comes amid a push to grow the league following a $2.5 billion, 10-year TV rights deal with Apple and the World Cup coming to North America in 2026.

Former Spurs and Real Madrid forward Gareth Bale previously played for LAFC, which has celebrity backers including Will Ferrell and Magic Johnson.

Any move for Giroud will likely signal the end of his sensational career in Europe, during which he won three FA Cups with Arsenal, another FA Cup with Chelsea, and a Champions League and Europa League title at Stamford Bridge.

Giroud also won Ligue 1 with Montpellier, Serie A with AC Milan and the World Cup with France.