Chelsea misfit reverses course as fresh contract talks begin

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A soon-to-be out of contract Chelsea veteran is set to pull a U-turn just three months after requesting a transfer after beginning ‘preliminary’ talks over a new deal.

A quartet of Blues face an uncertain future with each of their contracts expiring in the summer.

Wingers Willian and Pedro, back-up stopper Willy Cabaellero and World Cup winner Olivier Giroud could all be set to experience change next season, but according to the latest report, the latter on that list has had a change of heart.

The emergence of Tammy Abraham marginalised Giroud’s gametime under new boss Frank Lampard, leading to the Frenchman asking for his exit in the winter window.

Chelsea were unwilling to acquiesce to the demand unless they could bring in a suitable replacement, however, something the Blues were unable to achieve.

Abraham’s recent struggles with injury presented a golden opportunity for Giroud in the month leading up to football’s hiatus, and the towering centre-forward did not disappoint.

Giroud scored against Everton and Tottenham in the league and completed 90 minutes as Chelsea dumped rivals Liverpool out of the FA Cup.

Now, according to online publication Football London, Giroud’s return to the fore could be set to land him a new deal after they revealed ‘a source close to Giroud said that preliminary discussions have taken place with the club regarding a new deal.’

 

The article speculates that a one year deal will be offered – in line with their policy for ageing stars – but it is unclear whether the striker will hold out for a longer stay.

Interest had emerged initially from a familiar source in Inter Milan manager Antonio Conte.

The Italian had looked to bolster his ex-Premier League contingent at the San Siro with the addition of Giroud in January, but the move never materialised.

A shock switch to a London rival has been touted, but that now appears unlikely with Giroud taking the first step towards extending his stay at Stamford Bridge.

Meanwhile, Chelsea and Man Utd have been put on alert after a midfield target has had his price tag slashed.