Report: Inter leading Giroud race, could also target Alonso

A pair of Chelsea outcasts could end up at Inter before the January transfer window closes.

Along with being considered the front-runners to sign Olivier Giroud, Inter are also interested in signing Marcos Alonso before the winter signing period ends, according to Matt Law of The Telegraph.

Giroud has been linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge since November after falling down the pecking order under manager Frank Lampard, who has preferred to deploy Tammy Abraham and Michy Batshuayi in attack during his first season in charge. The 33-year-old Giroud has been limited to just one goal during seven appearances in all competitions.

It's understood that Giroud, whose contract expires this summer, favors a move to Italy despite opportunities to remain in England, as Premier League clubs such as Aston Villa and Newcastle have also been linked with the Frenchman, Law reports.

Inter are reportedly willing to pay around £2.5 million to complete a deal for Giroud. Such a move would reunite him with former Chelsea boss Antonio Conte, who might be willing to offer him a chance to keep his place in the France squad ahead of this summer's European Championship.

Conte is also believed to be interested in joining forces with Alonso again. He was an important figure under Conte during Chelsea's Premier League-winning campaign in 2017.

Similar to Giroud, Alonso's role has also been reduced as Lampard has opted to give Emerson Palmieri the majority of opportunities at left-back. The Spaniard has made just 14 appearances in all competitions this term.

Although Chelsea would prefer to sell the 29-year-old and use the money to fund a possible move for Bournemouth defender Nathan Ake, Inter are reportedly likely to pursue a loan with an option to buy Alonso.