Arsenal Star Refuses Contract Renewal, Hopes To Play For Barcelona

KEY POINTS

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is still waiting for Barcelona's offer as he is reportedly keen to refuse a renewal offer from Arsenal
Aubameyang could be Barca's alternative should the club fail to sign Lautaro Martinez
Aubameyang has remained one of the best strikers in the sport but he is aware that age may start to become a disadvantage soon

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is still hopeful that he could end up moving to Barcelona. The Arsenal superstar has pronounced his intent to suit up for the La Liga giants as he is reportedly keen on refusing to sign a new contract to stay at the Emirates Stadium if he is able to secure a deal at Camp Nou.

A report from Mundo Deportivo claims that Aubameyang continues to wait for the official word from the Catalans as he hopes to come up with a deal. The 31-year-old striker could pounce on the conditions at Camp Nou as the Blaugrana is said to be looking for a cheaper alternative for Luis Suarez and a back-up option should the chase for top transfer target Lautaro Martinez does not pan out.

“Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is a player who has been on the Barça agenda for a long time. On some occasion Barça have considered the hiring and the Gabonese striker is one of the alternatives in case the signing of Lautaro fails, which is the first option to reinforce the lead,” the report read.

“His contract with Arsenal expires next summer, in 2021, and for now the striker has given Arsenal a long time when have presented him with various renewal proposals. Before sealing his continuity in London, the striker wants to wait in case there is the possibility of playing at Camp Nou.”

The Gabon international has put himself in a better position to be considered by Barca after exhibiting his top-notch football skills for the Gunners recently. He has blossomed under Mikel Arteta, leading the way for the English club on numerous occasions, including their FA Cup Semi-Finals win over Manchester City on Saturday where he netted both goals scored in the match.

Aubameyang was able to rack up 20 goals in 35 appearances in the Premier League this season, proving that he is still one of the most vicious strikers in the sport. But despite being impactful at 31 years old, Barca might still scrutinize the situation further, especially that the club’s management is heading towards a revamp that will focus more on young talents.