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Arsenal include Olivier Giroud and record £52m signing Alexandre Lacazette in 25-man squad for Australia and China pre-season tour

Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud has been included in a 25-man squad for the club's two-week tour of Australia and China that will see the 2017 FA Cup holders play four matches.

Speculation had been rising Everton were interested in signing the forward - who has hit 98 league and cup goals for the Gunners - as a direct replacement for Romelu Lukaku who signed for Manchester United in a fee worth £75 million.

However, the trip to the southern hemisphere puts on hold any talks with Giroud from possible suitors - at least until he returns.

Arsenal's 25-man squad line-up for pictures before they jet off on tour to Australia and China
Arsenal's 25-man squad line-up for pictures before they jet off on tour to Australia and China

The squad departed for Sydney on Sunday night and are set to arrive in New South Wales on Tuesday.