Montpellier striker Olivier Giroud has been offered to Newcastle United.

The Sunday Sun says French fixers have put the 6ft 4ins striker to Toon officials but in another indication that United have as good as concluded a deal for Sochaux striker Modibo Maiga, they have turned down the forward - for now.

Although a transfer is not formally over the line, United have agreed a fee and terms for the Mali striker and top brass have communicated the message that the forward will be a Newcastle player from January 1.