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Olivier Giroud turned down switch to Everton from Arsenal as his wife did not want to move up North

Stoke midfielder Charlie Adam insists that the Frenchman's wife refused the move to Merseyside

EVERTON missed out on Olivier Giroud's signature this summer because the Frenchman's wife did not want to relocate up North.

The striker was Ronald Koeman's top target to fill the void left by Romelu Lukaku's switch to Manchester United.

 Giroud's wife Jennifer did not want to move up North
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Giroud's wife Jennifer did not want to move up NorthCredit: Social Media
 The Frenchman decided to stay at Arsenal and battle for his position in the starting XI
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The Frenchman decided to stay at Arsenal and battle for his position in the starting XICredit: Rex Features

Giroud's wife was thought to be content with London life and did not like the idea of moving, according to Stoke star Charlie Adam.

Adam told Radio Five Live: "I heard his partner refused the deal.

"The deal was nearly done, he wanted to come, but I heard it was his girlfriend or wife that turned it down."

Koeman remains insistent to bolster his front line, despite the introduction of Wayne Rooney and Sandro Ramirez to Goodison Park.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger was willing to offload the Frenchman, but he declined the chance to leave, claiming that was going to battle for his place at the Emirates.

Following the arrival of Alexandre Lacazette to the Emirates, Giroud has endured a stint on the sidelines.

 Jennifer Giroud in the crowd during France's match against Romania
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Jennifer Giroud in the crowd during France's match against RomaniaCredit: PA:Empics Sport
 Toffees boss Koeman labelled Giroud as his top target
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Toffees boss Koeman labelled Giroud as his top targetCredit: Rex Features

With the World Cup looming, the Frenchman needs first-team action to secure a spot in Didier Deschamps' well-knit squad.

International team-mates Giroud, Lacazette and Laurent Koscielny attempt to prompt Thomas Lemar's move to Arsenal, but the Monaco ace refused to join a Europa League side.

However, following the collapse of the Manchester City deal, Alexis Sanchez is said to be 'furious and does not want to play for Arsenal again'.

Arsenal could therefore face a spell without their Chilean maestro, which could pave way for Giroud's heroic return under the management of Wenger.

 Giroud tallied 16 goals in all competitions for the Gunners last term
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Giroud tallied 16 goals in all competitions for the Gunners last termCredit: Getty - Contributor
 Giroud's wife refused the all-but done deal to Everton
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Giroud's wife refused the all-but done deal to EvertonCredit: AFP or Licensors


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