According to reports from Spanish media outlet Marca, Barcelona have been put on red alert by Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s reluctance to sign a new deal with Arsenal. The Gabonese striker’s contract at the Emirates runs until 2021, and it is believed that the 30-year-old wishes to leave the club.
Not being able to play Champions League football has been cited as the primary reason and Barcelona are said to be waiting in the wings. Meanwhile, Arsenal are still trying to convince Aubameyang to sign an extension. However, if both parties don’t agree, then he will be free to talk to other clubs.
Aubameyang has been one of the most consistent performers for Arsenal since he moved to the North London club. It would be fair to say that he has carried the team on his shoulders alone in quite a few games. It would be understandable why a player of his calibre would want to move away from the club as the Gunners are currently looking listless.
Barcelona require a striker who can replace Luis Suarez. The Uruguayan will be 33 in January next year, and his contract at the club is until 2021. Suarez is still scoring goals for Barcelona, but he has certainly lost some of his killer instincts. Hence, it isn’t surprising to see the Blaugrana looking for a new striker.
What can Aubameyang offer?
Aubameyang will be a decent fit for the Catalonia side as he is a lethal finisher in front of goal. The current Arsenal captain is versatile enough to play on the flanks as well, and he can stretch play with his smart movement and searing pace. The forward will surely get better service than at Arsenal right now, and one can expect him to hit an impressive goal tally at the Camp Nou.
Problem with Aubameyang?
However, it cannot be ignored that even Aubameyang is also 30 now and he probably has 3 or 4 years of his peak football left in him. Replacing a 32-year-old with a 30-year-old looks a bit naive from Barcelona’s point of view. Moreover, Aubameyang is unlikely to come in cheap as Arsenal will undoubtedly try to keep him. Even if they end up selling him, then it will be for a considerable amount.
What can lure Aubameyang?
However, the chance to win major trophies and a chance to play in the Champions League regularly could push the striker to push for a move away. It remains to be seen how real Barcelona’s interest are and whether the Gunners will be able to tie down Aubameyang on a new contract or not.
