French champions PSG have reportedly identified Arsenal superstar Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as a potential replacement for exit-bound Edinson Cavani.
According to a report from The Sun, Arsenal captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has emerged as a transfer target for Ligue 1 champions Paris Saint-Germain, who are in the market for a striker to replace wantaway striker Edinson Cavani.
Cavani is in the final six months of his current contract with PSG and has his sights set on an exit. To that end, the Uruguayan international has already handed in a transfer request to seal a transfer away from Paris before the January window closes.
The 32-year-old’s availability has piqued the interest of Premier League giants Chelsea and Manchester United, with the latter reportedly making a contract offer for the striker. However, the Red Devils’ approach has been rebuffed by Cavani, who is keen on joining Spanish heavyweights Atletico Madrid.
PSG are in negotiations with Atleti over a transfer fee and an agreement could be arrived at soon. And should Cavani end up sealing a transfer to the Spanish capital outfit, Les Parisiens want a suitable replacement for him and have reportedly identified Arsenal superstar Aubameyang as the ideal candidate.
Aubameyang has been one of the most prolific goalscorers across Europe in recent years. Having joined Arsenal from Borussia Dortmund in January 2018, the Gabonese international has been a huge hit at the Emirates, scoring 57 goals in 91 matches till date.
Aubameyang won the Premier League Golden Boot last season and has started the 2019-20 campaign on a strong note as well, having already bagged 16 goals in 26 matches across all competitions. The 30-year-old was named the club captain at Arsenal earlier this season, highlighting his importance at the club.
However, with just 18 months left on Aubameyang’s contract with Arsenal, his future has been a subject of transfer speculation. Most recently, Barcelona were linked with a move for the 30-year-old as they sought to replace Luis Suarez. However, they seem to have switched their attention to Valencia’s Rodrigo, leaving the field clear for PSG.
PSG’s move for Aubameyang hinges on Cavani’s transfer to Atletico Madrid going through. If the French champions fail to agree a transfer fee with the La Liga giants, the Uruguayan might end up staying at the club till the end of the season and join Atleti on a free transfer in the summer.
Moreover, it would be extremely unlikely that Arsenal would allow their lead marksman to leave midway through the season. However, should PSG come calling again in the summer, their stance might change given Aubameyang’s contract situation.
With very little time left in the transfer window, it remains to be seen if PSG’s interest in the Arsenal captain leads to something or fades off just as another rumour.