Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas is launching a bid for Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud.

Off contract in June, Giroud is weighing up his options ahead of the January market amid encouragement from France coach Didier Deschamps that he leave Chelsea. Deschamps has warned the veteran he needs to be playing regularly to be sure of a place in France's Euros squad.

Le Progres says Aulas wants to sign a new striker next month and has Giroud high on his agenda. Valencia forward Kevin Gameiro is another under consideration.

It's also been revealed Aulas has long wanted to bring Giroud to OL, having asked he be included in Arsenal's offer for Alexandre Lacazette two years ago.