Gabon captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has been linked with some of Europe’s biggest clubs this summer, with the latest reports in the English media suggesting that Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City are set to sign the Dortmund superstar.
Sky Sports report that Manchester City are in advanced talks with Borussia Dortmund for Aubameyang, who is presently one of the most sought-after strikers in world football. However, the reliable Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano wrote for the Guardian that Manchester City have to fork out a fee in the region of £55 million to get their man.
Manchester United out of the race
It was believed that Manchester United would give City stiff competition for Aubameyang’s signature, but the situation has changed since then, with the Red Devils likely to bring in PSG superstar Zlatan Ibrahimovic as their marquee striker signing for the summer. The acquisition of Zlatan would mean that United would not not have room for Aubameyang in the squad.
The 26-year-old Gabon international is thus all set to follow former teammate Ilkay Gundogan to a side which will look to set records straight next season with the phenomenal Pep Guardiola in charge. However, Aubameyang has four years left on his contract, which would account for the exorbitant fee Dortmund are reportedly demanding for their star man.
Dortmund and the 36 goal hero
Aubameyang and attacking midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan, who is being courted by Juventus and Arsenal, were the major protagonists for Dortmund in 2015-16 under Klopp’s successor Thomas Tuchel. Dortmund have made a habit of losing their prized assets every year, and this year is no exception, with Gundogan and Mats Hummels having already packed their bags for their respective destinations.
Tuchel reflected his club’s strong stance on trying to hold on to the club’s most prized assets since the club has its own goals to fulfil. However, he did not fail to express a hint on annoyance and dismay at the interests of other clubs. “Everybody has to accept he has a long-term contract without the possibility to step out,” Tuchel said.
Aubameyang scored 25 times in the Bundesliga last season, with three more in the DFB Pokal and eight in the Europa League. His understanding with Mkhitaryan is near perfect, as the two have continued to communicate and combine well on the pitch for the last two seasons.
Dortmund would be in the market for a prolific goalscorer of proven merit next season given their participation in the Champions League and the likely departure of Aubameyang. If he is sold to Manchester City, the Citizens can look forward to one of the deadliest striking combos in Europe, as the Gabon striker will likely feature alongside Argentine superstar Sergio Aguero.
