Barcelona ‘admirers’ of former striker, could make summer move

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s move to Chelsea during the summer transfer window was a great disappointment for Barcelona, as the forward was one of the most liked figures at Camp Nou and the coaching staff was determined to keep him at the club.

But the Catalans had to sanction the exit of Aubameyang as they were not able to get rid of Memphis Depay and had to make space in the first-team.

However, six months into Aubameyang’s spell at Chelsea, the forward was linked with a return to Barcelona following a disappointing start to his career at Stamford Bridge.

With the Blues bringing in the likes of Joao Felix, Mykhailo Mudryk and Noni Madueke, the Gabonese international fell behind in the pecking order, paving the way for Barcelona to consider a move. But they were not able to re-sign the attacker due to RFEF regulations.

However, as per Fabrizio Romano, a return to Barcelona cannot be ruled out for Aubameyang just yet. Writing for Caught Offside, the Italian transfer expert claims that the Gabonese international is destined to depart Chelsea at the end of the season, especially after being omitted from the Champions League squad.

Romano adds that Barcelona continue to admire Aubameyang. The former Dortmund striker is still rated highly in the Catalan camp, who in turn, are keen on singing a proper alternative for Robert Lewandowski next season.

The Blaugrana have been linked with a move for Vitor Roque recently, with the Brazilian reportedly being identified as the ideal long-term replacement for Lewandowski.

But signing Aubameyang could be a handy short-term solution, as the forward has an abundance of experience at the highest level of football and a proven track record of performing in La Liga.

The 33-year-old is not expected to cost a fortune either and given his desire to play for Barcelona, the club should have too much difficulty accommodating him into the team without breaching the Financial Fair Play rules.