Arsenal in astonishing U-turn over star player after heavy investment
Arsenal could listen to offers for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang this summer, just one year after giving him a contract extension, a report claims.
Aubameyang’s future was very much in doubt last summer, when only one year remained on his contract. After helping Arsenal win the FA Cup and Community Shield, he eventually decided to stay in north London – but at a large cost to his club.
The Gabon striker’s new deal sees him earn wages of more than £300,000 per week. That sum eclipses any of his teammates’ salaries.
However, his status as Arsenal’s highest earner has not been reflected on the pitch this season. He scored nine goals from 24 Premier League appearances up until the March international break.
His form has not been as strong as it was a few years ago. Once a Golden Boot winner, he is not even in the top 10 scorers in this season’s English top flight.
That could be a concern for Arsenal. Indeed, a report from Football Insider claims some figures at the club believe he is past his peak and they may have made a mistake.
With funds due to be tight if the Gunners miss out on European football for next season, Aubameyang is now seen as someone who can be sold. But they will have to receive the right price.
At the age of 32, Aubameyang’s market value will begin to decrease over time. However, given he is still under contract until 2023, Arsenal could still get a decent fee for him this summer.
Therefore, if any of the clubs who were trying to prise him away last year retain an interest, Arsenal will consider entering negotiations. But the report warns that it may be difficult to find a club willing to invest as heavily in the striker.
Jamie Redknapp thinks Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is past his best
Jamie Redknapp questions Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's consistency following Arsenal's 1-0 loss to Manchester City at home and says that the striker is 'past his best'.
It seems Arsenal may be coming to regret the decision they made last summer. All they can hope for until the next transfer window is for Aubameyang to regain some form.
His potential departure may be a necessity at the end of the season, though, if Arsenal are to compete for the targets they want to sign.
Lacazette future also in doubt
It could be all change in the Arsenal attack over the next few months, with Aubameyang’s main competitor for the starting striker role, Alexandre Lacazette, also facing an uncertain future.
Lacazette has just one year left on his contract, which puts Arsenal in the same position as they were in with Aubameyang a year ago.
Give our social media channels a follow – we’re on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
Now, they have a decision to make – and there is no shortage of interest in the Frenchman. A recent report revealed that Atletico Madrid retain an interest and have been joined in the hunt by Sevilla and Roma.
Alternatively, Lacazette could be sent to Real Betis in a swap deal for playmaker target Nabil Fekir.
Either way, if Aubameyang or Lacazette – or both – leave, Arsenal will need to fill the void up front as well.
READ MORE: Arsenal hope to lure Odegaard by pairing him with classy Leipzig star
