The Serie A giants AC Milan are closely monitoring the rise of Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud in order to strengthen their attacking ranks, according to Italian outlet Newsmondo.

Giroud has been advised by France assistant manager Guy Stephan to quit the Gunners and search for some regular playing time elsewhere.

Giroud, 31, who rejected a £30m move to Everton in the summer, is understood to be open to a move away from the Emirates Stadium to keep his World Cup 2018 hope alive.

The report claims that Milan have reportedly “explored” the possibility of signing the Frenchman, who has made all 12 of his Premier League games this season from the bench.

Giroud joined the Gunners in 2012 from Ligue 1 outfit Montpellier.