According to Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud, as explained in So Foot via Goal, he 'almost signed' for Tottenham back in January after becoming 'determined' to leave west London - with Spurs apparently having come close to his signature amidst Daniel Levy's continued hunt for a striker. 

After sealing sensational moves for Gareth Bale and Sergio Reguilon, all happening in a matter of days, the deals have come as somewhat of a surprise given the lack of indication that Spurs were looking to bring in a left-back particularly.

There were reports claiming that Levy and co were eyeing a winger, as well as a centre-back and striker, but moves for both Bale and Reguilon still haven't solved Tottenham's lack of depth going forward.

In an alternative universe, manager Jose Mourinho would have his arguably ideal target man in Giroud, especially considering this emerged confession that he was on the verge of a Spurs switch.

Speaking to So Foot, quotes via Goal, the 6ft 3 striker admitted to nearly signing back in January before Chelsea opted to extend his contract.

"During the last three days of the transfer window, I was in the coach's office to find a solution. I was hoping Chelsea would find a replacement for me," he explained.

"For my part, it was not the solutions that were lacking: I almost signed for Lazio, Inter… I was even so determined to leave that I even almost signed for Tottenham!"

Reliable football.london correspondent Alasdair Gold has confirmed the list of names that Spurs are currently monitoring after missing out on Giroud, with Habib Diallo, Danny Ings and Andrea Belotti all being touted with attracting interest.

Described as 'brilliant' and a 'breath of fresh air' (The Metro), signing the Frenchman would have solved a lot of problems for Mourinho going forward despite his age - and the £110,000-per-week salary could have been a fair price to pay considering his Premier League experience.

Spurs fans, do you lament missing out on Giroud? Have your say in the comments below...