Olivier Giroud to ditch MLS for France return? LAFC striker linked with shock move back to Ligue 1 as Lille president breaks silence on rumours

After days of swirling rumours, the speculation has taken a serious turn. Lille president Letang has gone public with the club’s genuine interest in signing Giroud. While a deal is far from done, Letang’s declaration has reignited excitement and set social media buzzing with the possibility of bringing the World Cup winner back to Ligue 1.

In a candid interview with L'Equipe, the Lille president made no secret of his admiration for the former Arsenal and Chelsea striker, saying: "Olivier Giroud is a top-level player who, since 2012, has only played for major European clubs, where he has performed well. He is a remarkable man, as is his family."

However, signing the veteran forward will be no easy task, given the hurdles ahead.

The 38-year-old is currently under contract with Los Angeles FC until the end of 2025, and Lille are fully aware of the complexities involved. Letang didn’t sugarcoat the challenge: “I’d love to see him join us. He brings everything we seek, tactical fit, experience, high standards, and great human values. But he belongs to another club, and I don’t see how it could happen easily.”

Despite the obstacles, contractual commitments, financial considerations, and timing, Lille are actively working behind the scenes.

If an agreement is reached, and Giroud does arrive at Stade Pierre-Mauroy, it would be one of the marquee signings of the summer. While there’s plenty of ground to cover, hope remains alive for Lille supporters. In football, the improbable is never impossible.

With Paul Pogba poised to feature at Monaco and Giroud potentially joining Lille, the 2025–26 Ligue 1 season is shaping up to be a blockbuster campaign filled with returning French icons.