Xavi keen on keeping Pierre-Emerick Aubamenyang as Gabonese being linked with a £10.5 million move to Chelsea
According to Relevo (h/t Express), Chelsea are considering a £10.5 million move for Barcelona forward Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. But the Blaugrana boss Xavi is keen on keeping the Gabonese at Camp Nou this summer.
Aubameyang made his way to Barcelona in January after his relationship with Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta broke down. The 33-year-old didn’t have the best of times with the Gunners in the last couple of seasons in North London.
With Chelsea seemingly interested, the Catalan giants want to keep Aubameyang. Xavi alluded to that when speaking to the media. But the Barcelona manager didn’t rule out a move for the Gabonese star this transfer window.
“I am counting on him (Aubameyang). Those I am not counting on already know, they know won’t play. Everyone else is training. Between now and August 31, different things can happen. But I like Auba, he can help us. He’s humble and I’m delighted with him.”
Aubamayeng’s time in English football was mixed. The 33-year-old started with great form, scoring a lot of goals for Arsenal. But towards the end of his time in the Premier League, the Gabonese struggled to perform to his best.
However, the former Gunner has found his feet again in Spain. Aubameyang ended the 2021/22 campaign as one of Barcelona’s highest goalscorers. He helped Xavi and the side to a top-four finish after the Catalans struggled in the first half of the season.
Chelsea evidently need a number nine this summer. Romelu Lukaku left the Blues after just one season back at Stamford Bridge. The Belgian has been sent back to Inter Milan on loan.
Timo Werner is another forward that has left the club. While his time at Chelsea wasn’t the best, the German had his moments in a blue shirt.
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We’ve only made one addition to the forward line. Raheem Sterling has arrived from Manchester City. While the England international is a quality player, the Blues lacked a prolific goalscorer in the previous campaign.
Thomas Tuchel has worked with Aubameyang in the past. If Chelsea are able to convince him to switch sides and if the German manager can bring the best out of the Gabonese, Chelsea’s attacking woes could be solved.