Former striker dreams of returning to Barcelona in the summer – report

According to reports from SPORT, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has rejected a move to MLS because he dreams of returning to Barcelona in the summer. The Chelsea striker was subject to a transfer to Los Angeles FC, but that has since been ruled out.

Auba believes that he still has a lot to give to European football, despite being 33, and has offered himself to Barcelona in the summer. Right now, however, he wants to win his place back at Chelsea.

He moved to the London outfit in the summer after losing his starting spot to Robert Lewandowski. The move was fast-tracked by Thomas Tuchel. His replacement, Graham Potter, favours the likes of Kai Havertz over the Gabonese, though.

Aubameyang was also dropped from Chelsea’s Champions League squad, too, to make way for winter signings Enzo Fernandes, Joao Felix, and Mykhaylo Mudryk. Potter commented on the situation and on rumours linking him to LAFC.

“Nothing to report on Aubameyang [loan move to LAFC]. No update. He has been training well and he has conducted himself well,” he said, as relayed by Fabrizio Romano.

Barcelona were also linked to Aubameyang in the winter, but FIFA regulations surrounding players’ registration thrice in one season prevented them from making any moves.

Further, Barcelona were, and probably still are, only interested in bringing him back if it is a free transfer. Auba would potentially also have to take a pay-cut, as well.

Barça are already struggling immensely with the wage bill, and have to reduce it by more than €200 million before the summer window hits. As such, any move for Aubameyang, or any other player, hinges on the board clearing out deadwood and bringing in more money.