Chelsea forward willing to make a ‘big effort’ to secure January move to Barcelona

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s name has once again appeared on Barcelona’s horizon, reports Spanish news outlet Mundo Deportivo.

Aubameyang, 33, was sold to Chelsea last summer for €12 million following Robert Lewandowski’s acquisition. The former Arsenal forward, however, has failed to adjust to life at Stamford Bridge and now that the Blues have also signed Joao Felix, he now wishes to leave.

Since he has made up his mind already, he is now thinking of a reunion with Xavi at Barcelona, but things are not that straightforward at the moment. 

As for Barcelona, to pull off the transfer at such a volatile economic time, they will first need to offload a few players. In that regard, a certain Memphis Depay tops the list.

The Netherlands international is completely fallen out of favour and it is being quoted that Barcelona would have no issues in parting ways, either this month or in the summer.

But even if they manage to sell the Dutchman, they will have to make further amends mostly because as MD quotes, Barça’s Financial Fair Play is at -€26 million at the moment.

That essentially means if Aubameyang is indeed serious about joining Barcelona, he would need to reduce his salary a lot so that Blaugrana can comply with the financial rules.

And Adrian Sanchez is now reporting that the veteran striker would be willing to make a big effort to make that happen as he is desperate to return to Barcelona and end his Chelsea nightmare.

Atletico Madrid could have a major say in whether the move happens or not. Joao Felix’s departure from the Madrid club to London means there is a vacancy at the Metropolitano upfront.

The Rojiblancos are said to be targeting Memphis Depay to fill the void and if that is done followed by Aubameyang’s urge to reduce his salary, the circle would essentially complete itself.

The update from Adrian Sanchez further adds that Xavi would prefer if Depay left so that it would open the door for Aubameyang to return. However, the Barça head coach will not force the Netherlands international to leave and will respect his decision.

So, for anything to happen, all parties involved – the three clubs as well as Aubameyang and Depay – will have to compromise in one way or the other.