Manchester City saw their ploy to sign former Arsenal and Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud prior to his move to AC Milan rejected, according to reports.
The towering French forward completed a move to Serie A last summer after his three-year stint at Stamford Bridge came to an end. City saw iconic talisman Sergio Aguero depart in the summer and their efforts to sign Harry Kane were scuppered, leaving them going into this campaign without a recognised number nine.
According to an intermediary close to the World Cup-winning forward via Sempre Milan, Giroud rejected a number of clubs including the Premier League champions.
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Vincenzo Morabito said: "He had chosen to join Milan since February, but Chelsea broke the promise to sell him without a transfer fee. Maldini wanted him and was really determined to sign him and Oliver accepted to cut his salary to sign for Milan.
"He rejected many bids to sign for Milan last summer. Manchester City, Tottenham, West Ham and New York City wanted Olivier, but had chosen to join Milan. Now he dreams to win Scudetto [Serie A]."
In other news, the Blues are said to be on the verge of completing the signing of another South American prospect — Atletico Mineiro star Savinho. The winger has reportedly completed his €6.5m (£5.4m) move plus add-ons, subject to paperwork, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The Italian reporter tweeted : "Talented Brazilian winger Savinho to Manchester City from Atlético Mineiro, done deal and here we go #MCFC. Agreement completed and confirmed: €6.5m plus add-ons and sell-on.
He added: "Paperworks set to be signed. Savinho’s born in 2004 and will join City Group in the summer."
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