Aubameyang rejects Arsenal deal, draws closer to ‘fascinating’ Conte plan

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang Arsenal TEAMtalk

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has rejected Arsenal’s offer of a new contract and is “fascinated” by the prospect of joining Antonio Conte at Inter, according to a report.

Aubameyang, who has one year left on his deal, has held talks with Gunners boss Mikel Arteta about an extension.

However, FCInterNews claims the striker has rejected the proposal from the north London side, which would have offered him the same terms amid Arteta’s plans to rebuild his side.

The source says Arsenal‘s project has not convinced Aubameyang, who wants to compete at the highest level.

As such, the prospect of joining Inter Milan in Serie reportedly “fascinates and intrigues” the Gabon international.

Antonio Conte has persuaded former Premier League stars Christian Eriksen, Romelu Lukaku and Ashley Young to Italy in the past 12 months and hopes he can do the same with Aubameyang.

Inter’s move for the attacker hinges, however, on the sale of Lautaro Martinez to Barcelona.

The Spanish giants have earmarked Martinez as their top target to replace Luis Suarez and have made several bids.

 

Inter turned down the latest offer – of €70million plus Junior Firpo – but the feeling is that the Argentine will leave.

Indeed, the prospect of playing alongside his compatriot Lionel Messi is a huge one for Martinez.

Therefore, Conte has reportedly signed off plans to move for Aubameyang if his current striker departs.

And Aubameyang is keen to be the focal point up front in an exciting Inter side, if given the chance.

AUBAMEYANG OUT, EXCITING WINGER IN?

Cengiz Under Justin Kluivert Roma TEAMtalk

Elsewhere, reports claim Arsenal are negotiating a swap deal involving Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Justin Kluivert.

Mkhitaryan would extend his stay at Roma after his loan spell this season, with winger Kluivert moving to North London.

And while there is optimism both sides can agree a deal, influential agent Mino Raiola has reportedly stepped in to help.

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