Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is on the brink of Chelsea move
Barça hope to settle the sale in the next few days which would give them some breathing space financially
After the endless wait for Frenkie de Jong, the first major sale for FC Barcelona is likely to be that of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. The Gabonese is getting close to becoming a new Chelsea player. His word will be the deciding factor. Xavi prefers to have him in the squad, but the arrival of Robert Lewandowski has pushed him down the pecking order. Everyone stands to gain from this transfer.
Auba didn't fancy Manchester United, but with Chelsea, it's a different case. The Gabonese wants to play in the Champions League and the Blues, unlike the Red Devils, offer him the opportunity. He is very content in Barcelona, but the option of being a starter at Stamford Bridge and the increased income is an incentive to him. A meeting was due on Thursday with the English club's emissaries, reported by journalist Fabrizio Romano, to finalise the details of his contract before Chelsea made a formal offer.
If the player agrees, the London club seem willing to reach the 30 million euros that Barça are demanding. Another interesting possibility for Barça is that Marcos Alonso could be included in the deal. The Madrid-born player was valued at 15 million euros by the English club, but Barça does not intend to exceed ten million.
Aubameyang had worked hard to sign for FC Barcelona in the winter transfer window. He put in a lot of work to sign after leaving Arsenal, even personally showing up at the Ciutat Esportiva when necessary. The move worked out very well for both Barça and him, as the striker has been a hit with the fans from day one and has 13 goals in 24 games. But now, his position can be occupied by other players, such as Ansu or Ferran Torres if 'Lewy' is not available. With money a priority, his departure would help to lighten the wage bill and tackle the registrations and new signings. Barça are hoping for a quick and favourable response from the player.
