Chelsea target Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is a player who Thomas Tuchel ‘would love to have’ at the club, according to journalist Dean Jones.

The 33-year-old has been linked with a surprise return to the Premier League just six months after signing for Barcelona from Arsenal following the arrival of Robert Lewandowski at Camp Nou.

What is the latest news involving Aubameyang?

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano recently reported that Chelsea are ‘now considering’ a bid for Aubameyang as they look to replace the departed Romelu Lukaku in their forward line.

It’s claimed that ‘discussions’ have already taken place with the Gabon international, indicating Thomas Tuchel is stepping up his efforts to bring a new striker into Stamford Bridge this summer.

However, Romano has now revealed that Barcelona are only willing to allow one of Memphis Depay and Aubameyang to depart the Camp Nou.

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Italian giants Juventus are said to be ‘getting closer to an agreement’ with Depay’s representatives over a potential deal, meaning Chelsea may have to move quickly to secure Aubameyang’s signature.

The rapid forward previously enjoyed great success under Tuchel at Borussia Dortmund, registering 79 goals and 17 assists in 95 appearances during their time together and could be reunited in west London.

What has Jones said about Aubameyang?

Jones has informed GiveMeSport that Aubameyang was one of the ‘names’ that Tuchel gave to new owner Todd Boehly when he started searching for emergency signings.

He said: “When he started looking into emergency signings for this team, Boehly asked Tuchel basically who he would love to have, and Aubameyang was one of those names that he gave to him.

“He didn't say it was a realistic one but said this is a player that could fit because of these reasons. And it was the same time he spoke about getting (Presnel) Kimpembe.”

Where would Aubameyang fit in?

At present, 20-year-old Armando Broja and Michy Batshuayi are the only senior strikers available to Tuchel, although both players have been strongly linked with moves away.

Lukaku has re-joined Inter Milan on a season-long loan while Timo Werner has completed his return to RB Leipzig, leaving Chelsea short on quality and numbers up front.

Kai Havertz started up front against Tottenham Hotspur last time out and put in an impressive performance, but a wayward finish from a magnificent Reece James cross highlighted his lack of clinical finishing.

Therefore, Aubameyang, who earns £185,000-per-week, is likely being targeted to provide those predatory instincts inside the box that Chelsea currently lack.