Arteta promise has little effect as twist sees old suitors for star weigh up €20m offer
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang remains the subject of transfer interest despite Mikel Arteta making a vow over his Arsenal future.
Arteta confirmed at a press conference on Thursday that Aubameyang would not be leaving Arsenal this summer. He was speaking one day after the club captain bounced back with a hat trick in a 6-0 EFL Cup win over West Brom.
Yet, not even 24 hours later, Aubameyang is being linked with a move away from the club again. According to Tuttomercatoweb, Juventus may make a move for him after the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo, who seems all set to join Manchester City.
The Serie A side were looking to bolster their forward line even before it became clear that they would likely be losing Ronaldo. In that regard, they have been in negotiations to take Moise Kean back from Everton. But they could add a more experienced centre-forward to their ranks too.
TMW believe Aubameyang is on Juventus’ shortlist and that the Gabon international would not mind changing clubs.
He endured a difficult 2020-21 season at the Emirates Stadium, affected by a number of factors. His return of 15 goals was his lowest in a decade and did not justify the huge contract Arsenal awarded him last summer.
But the treble at West Brom showed what he is still capable of, prompting Arteta to rule out a summer exit.
Even so, Juventus may try their luck at prising him away. In fact, TMW affirm that a deal could be done for around €20m. Juventus have admired Aubameyang since his Borussia Dortmund days and may strike now.
They are still considering Kean, as well as another old flame, Paris Saint-Germain’s ex-Inter Milan striker Mauro Icardi.
It remains to be seen how much spending power they will have as and when Ronaldo leaves. They are hoping to receive around €25m to sell him, but will also clear significant space from their wage bill.
Realistically, they may only be able to sign one player. But if the right opportunity presents itself, they could consider an additional reinforcement.
Aubameyang to fulfil Arsenal contract?
Earlier this month, a report in the Daily Express claimed Aubameyang has no intention of leaving Arsenal. Although he was very much considering his future last summer, he is committed to the cause now.
The contract he signed last summer still has two years left to run, which he intends to see out.
The Gunners will thus be hoping he can recapture his best form in front of goal if they cannot convince him to find a new club. He did average 30 goals a season in his previous two full campaigns with the club, so such form would be welcome.
He has also been linked with Barcelona, but both player and manager have reiterated his commitment.
Whether Juventus can change their minds, only time will tell.
READ MORE: Arsenal forward has new European escape route, as all-time great eyes last-gasp deal
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