West Ham plan swoop for Hart and Giroud

West Ham United are keen to sign Joe Hart and will press ahead with a move for Olivier Giroud if Arsenal sign any new strikers.

The deal for Hart would most likely be a season-long loan, and it is understood that the England international wants the move.

An intriguing complication could be if Manchester United sell David de Gea to Real Madrid, as it is believed that manager Jose Mourinho is genuinely interested in signing Hart. However, it is hard to see Manchester City allowing the 30-year-old to join their city rivals.

A move to West Ham makes more sense, and the club would regard the signing as a statement of intent for the new season, with Hart regarded as a strong character and a potential leader for the squad. The fact that he is English is also an attraction.

The scale of Hart’s wages would make a permanent move to West Ham difficult, but it seems both parties would consider a loan agreement, although that also depends on the fee demanded by City.

West Ham are attempting to reshape their squad after a disappointing first campaign at the London Stadium, and Giroud’s situation is also being closely monitored.

Arsenal are trying to sign Giroud’s French international teammate Alexandre Lacazette, and have also continued to track Kylian Mbappé at Monaco, although Real Madrid are favourites to sign him if he leaves. Should Arsenal make signings it appears that Giroud may be available.

However, if Alexis Sánchez were to leave Arsenal, with Bayern Munich his most likely destination, Arsène Wenger may not allow Giroud to go as well.