Chelsea are interested in signing former Arsenal striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to strengthen their attack. However, the Barcelona forward prefers to remain at Barcelona over a move to the Blues.
The Premier League 2022/23 season has kicked off, yet Chelsea have not finished their summer business. The Blues are in the market for more players as they look to bolster their squad. Three players have walked through the door at Stamford Bridge, Kalidou Koulibally, Raheem Sterling and Marc Cucurella, yet the Blues want more.
There are other areas in the team that needs attention. The midfield and attack still lack personnel that can deliver the goods. It is why Chelsea have been in hot pursuit of Frenkie de Jong. The west London club want to trump Manchester United to the signature of the Dutch midfielder.
Chelsea are also interested in another Barcelona player to help strengthen their attack, which has been sorely lacking in goals. After failing with other targets, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is the next target for the Blues, but the Gabonese striker does not seem interested in joining Chelsea.
Aubameyang prefers Chelsea
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang left the Premier League in poor circumstances. He lost the captain’s armband at Arsenal and had his contract terminated to allow Barcelona to sign him. The Gabonese striker has found a new lease of life at the Nou Camp and has attracted the attention of other top European clubs.
According to reports, the former Arsenal striker acknowledges the interest in his services by other clubs but prefers to remain at Barcelona over a return to the Premier League with Chelsea.
Following the departure of Romelu Lukaku and Timo Werner, Chelsea have lacked goals and are sorely in need of a striker. The Blues are keen on signing Aubameyang, who is yet to complete a season at Barcelona. However, despite not being keen on leaving the Nou Camp, Aubameyang is willing to listen to Chelsea if they approach him.
A reputation restored
Before arriving at Arsenal, Aubameyang enjoyed a wonderful time at Borussia Dortmund. The former Arsenal player is no stranger to Thomas Tuchel as he had a fantastic relationship with him at the BVB. The Gabon international had a spell to forget at Arsenal, where he fell out with manager Mikel Arteta, leading to the termination of his contract and exit to Barcelona.
At Barcelona, the former Dortmund forward was able to restore his reputation as a potent striker with heartwarming performances at the Nou Camp. He has played just half a season with Barcelona, scoring 13 goals in all competitions. Despite his solid performances, his Barca future is in jeopardy, with interest from Chelsea.
The arrival of the high-profile signing of Robert Lewandowski has changed the atmosphere considerably for Aubameyang. Barcelona would now be willing to listen to offers for the Gabon international.
Reports in Spain suggest that Aubameyang is keen to remain at Barcelona because he has bonded well with his new teammates and feels comfortable at the club.
Reports by Sport claim Xavi views Aubameyang as a vital player to his side, and the club would rather sell former Manchester United forward Memphis Depay than the Gabon international. Despite the reluctance to sell, Chelsea remain interested in the player.
Aubameyang and his representatives will have talks with Barcelona as Chelsea waits on the sidelines for the outcome of the negotiations. The results of the negotiations would determine the next step Chelsea would take in their search for a striker.
