Borussia Dortmund have announced that striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has extended his contract with the club until 2020. Aubameyang’s previous deal with the club was due to expire in 2018 and the new deal had been offered to fend off the reported interest from other clubs.
Aubameyang has recently been linked with a host of European clubs including Arsenal FC and Liverpool FC. However, the announcement of the deal has put to rest any speculation regarding the immediate future of the Gabon international. Dortmund had signed Aubameyang from French club Saint- tienne in 2013 for A?13 million.
Dortmund has become like a second home to me – Aubameyang
“I’m absolutely delighted that the next years of my career will be spent at Borussia Dortmund,” Aubameyang told the cluba s official website.
“I feel very happy at the club, in this team and in this city.
“Dortmund has become like a second home to me. Every part of me wants to be here and I have never wanted to leave.”
The striker scored 13 goals in his debut season at the Signal Iduna Park and followed it with 16 last term. The Gabon international shares a telepathic understanding with team-mate and highly coveted German international Marco Reus.
“Auba has developed outstandingly. . We are very happy that we have been able to tie him down to a long-term contract.” Borussia Dortmund’s Sporting Director Michael Zorc said.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang extends BVB contract until 2020 #Auba2020 http://t.co/9MvbQMlIo8 pic.twitter.com/2S2lkxVeYO
a Borussia Dortmund (@BVB) July 31, 2015
#Auba2020 😉 pic.twitter.com/gDMsOCLUzH
a Borussia Dortmund (@BVB) July 31, 2015
Will Arsenal FC now turn their attention on Marco Reus?
Aubameyang had emerged as a top target for the North London club who are looking to recruit a World Class striker. However, the Gunners would now need to turn their attention elsewhere following the 26-year-old’s contract extension.
Arsenal FC are also reportedly interested in Aubameyang’s strike partner Marco Reus. The highly coveted German has been a long term target of Arsenal FC. However, the German’s representatives have claimed that the striker is flattered by the European interest but is happy at Signal Iduna Park and will stay put.
The transfer window is open for another month and we have seen that, in football, one month is a long time and many developments may occur.
Aubameyang would be hoping to help his club qualify for the Champions League next season, having missed out on it courtesy of a 7th placed finish last season.