Arsenal FC have just one out and out striker in their squad, and are reportedly ready to make a shock move for Borussia Dortmund hitman Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
The 26-year-old has been in the form of his life, scoring 24 goals in 23 appearances for the German club this season, taking them to the second position in the Bundesliga table.
However, Aubameyang is reportedly looking for greener pastures, and is said to have mentioned to his friends that the Premier League might be an extremely favourable destination for him.
Arsenal FC themselves have been brilliant this season, playing a freeflowing style of football, while also keeping a strong defensive line at the back. This has helped them break into a two-point lead at the top of the table. However, they have only Olivier Giroud as their striker, and would be looking to strengthen their team with another frontman.
The Gunners have in fact sent an “intermediary” to Dortmund to hammer out a deal for the Gabon striker, according to The Sun.
Arsenal FC the preferred destination?
Other than the Gunners, the likes of Manchester United, Chelsea FC and Liverpool FC are also said to be interested in hijacking Aubameyang from Dortmund. However, neither of these three sides are currently in a Champions League qualification spot, and this could enhance Arsenal FC’s opportunity to land the Gabon striker.
A top marksman like Aubameyang would surely want to play in the Champions League next season, and a move to a team that does not offer that might seem improbable.
An expensive move
Aubameyang is tied to Borussia Dortmund for another four and a half years, which means that Die Borussen would be unwilling to sell him unless a large sum of money is offered.
Transfermarkt.com . values him at around A?25 million at the moment. However, due to his impressive performances, Arsene Wenger would probably have to shell out around A?42 million, if reports from England are to be believed.