Chelsea exploring Aubameyang alternatives as they struggle to agree a fee with Barça

Chelsea are exploring alternative options to Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, including Alvaro Morata, after growing frustrated with their attempts to strike a deal with Barcelona. 

Barca and Chelsea have held talks over a deal for Aubameyang but have failed to come to an agreement over a fee. 

The Premier League side have proposed a cash plus player offer, with Marcos Alonso moving in the other direction, while Barca are holding out for over €25 million. 

Chelsea, though, are not prepared to match Barca’s asking price and now exploring other options with just over a week to run in the transfer window. 

They have sounded out a deal for Atletico Madrid striker Alvaro Morata, who previously spent two seasons at Stamford Bridge, and are also assessing other alternatives. 

Coach Thomas Tuchel is keen to bring in former Arsenal striker Aubameyang, who he worked with at Borussia Dortmund, but Chelsea will not overpay. 

Aubameyang joined Barca on a free transfer in January when Arsenal agreed to rescind his contract. 

Chelsea’s need for new firepower was highlighted on Sunday as they went down 3-0 to Leeds United in the Premier League. They have four points from their first three games this season. 

Barca, meanwhile, need to sell Aubameyang, who Xavi would like to keep, in order to be able to register Jules Kounde with LaLiga and pursue any other signings this summer. 

Aubameyang was an unused substitute on Sunday as Barca recorded their first win of the new season, beating Real Sociedad 4-1 at Anoeta.