Frustrated Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud has hinted that the signing of Gonzalo Higuain could accelerate his departure from Stamford Bridge.

The 32-year-old has made just six Premier League starts since Maurizio Sarri's arrival in the summer, scoring once, and has not ruled out a return to France.

Sarri has persisted with a system which Giroud describes as "detrimental to strikers", with Eden Hazard operating as a false nine.

Chelsea are set to offload Alvaro Morata to Atletico Madrid following Higuain's arrival, and Giroud believes his future at Stamford Bridge is now 'darker' with Higuain offering competition for places.

"The coach makes Hazard play nine which is detrimental to strikers,” the Frenchman told Canal. “But he is the best player I've ever played with.

Speaking before Higuain's arrival was announced, Giroud said: "If the club decides to get another striker, like Higuain, it will certainly darken my future at Chelsea.

“I've never said no to a return to France. Lyon and Marseille are two great clubs. My priority is to stay in the Premier League though.”