Inter Milan have reportedly taken the lead in the race to sign Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud over the January transfer window.

The France international is expected to complete a move away from the west London outfit after falling behind Tammy Abraham and Michy Batshuayi in the pecking order.

Meanwhile – Aston Villa, Newcastle United and Crystal Palace have all been credited with an interest in the 33-year-old veteran striker.

According to The Telegraph, however, Inter Milan are obvious favourites to land the World Cup winner, who is said to favour a move to Italy as opposed to staying in the Premier League.

The report goes on to claim that Giroud, whose contract at Chelsea expires in six months, has attracted interest from the Ligue 1 outfit Bordeaux, but the Frenchman is seriously considering linking up with ex-Chelsea coach Antonio Conte again.