Arsenal are hopeful that their relationship with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s father will convince the striker to sign a new contract at the club, reports The Daily Telegraph.
The 30-year-old’s current deal expires at the end of next season, opening the door to a possible free transfer when the 2020/21 campaign ends.
The report states that talks have reached something of an impasse as Arsenal attempt to tie him down after a season in which he has captained the club at times.
However, they are on good terms with his father, Pierre-Francois, who also operates as his agent, and there is said to be a hope that his son will be convinced to stay.
Indeed, Arsenal are said to be ready to pull out all the stops to keep him around; he has scored 20 goals this season in all competitions.
However, there is said to be interest in him from across Europe; Barcelona are said to be admirers but they are unlikely to spend big in the summer window.
Arsenal paid £56 million to secure the striker’s signature from Borussia Dortmund but they are not likely to recoup that fee.
GIVEMESPORT’S Harry Sherlock says…
Aubameyang has all the power in this situation.
It would make sense for the Gabon international to wait and assess his options in the summer.
If there is interest from Barca and it is formalised, it may be that it is his last chance to make such a move.
Thus, putting pen to paper before the transfer window opens makes precious little sense; Aubameyang ought to wait and see what happens.
He holds all the cards and if no interest is forthcoming, he can put pen to paper, and be seen as the remaining hero.
He simply cannot lose.