Arsenal could be on the verge of losing their most influential striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang during the next transfer window as he is close to the end of his contract with the club.
The in-form striker is in the final year of his contract, and the Gunners hierarchies are reportedly doing everything possible to extend his stay at the North London club.
However, the club might fail in their bid to see the player remain under Arteta beyond this season due to the reasons listed below:
1. The Urge For Champions League Action
Mikel Arteta’s men presently occupy the ninth position with 37 points, seven points behind Chelsea who are in the fourth position, and their hopes of qualifying for next season’s Champions League remains in doubt.
Judging by their current position on the Premier League table and Manchester United’s newfound confidence, it won’t be out of context to suggest that their chances of featuring in any of next year’s European competitions (Champions League and Europa League) remains uncertain.
Aubameyang will certainly want to ply his trade across Europe next season; hence, the Gunners face a very slim chance of convincing the player into signing a new contract before the end of the season.
2. Interest From Top European Clubs
Barcelona were the first club who showed interest in the striker following the injury picked up by Luis Suarez, but the Gunners were smart enough to deny the Blaugranas the chance of negotiating with the player during the winter transfer window.
However, Arsenal’s mission to prevent all interested suitors from snatching Aubameyang away is far from over as Barcelona are likely to reignite interest in the player in the next transfer market.
In the same vein, Inter Milan are equally knocking on the player’s door. According to Italian outlet Inter Live, Antonio Conte is looking at the prospect of luring the Gabonese striker to the San Siro Stadium as part of his mission to boost his attacking department next season.
The former Chelsea boss, who signed Lukaku from Manchester United prior to the start of this campaign, hopes to include the Arsenal forward to the list of players he wants to have under his watch in the 2020-21 season.
The Italy-based media outlet further revealed that the Nerrazurri are set to launch a player-plus-cash move for the striker, which could see Ivan Perisic move to the Emirates Stadium.
As much as the Gunners are not in desperate need of a winger, the North London club might fail to overcome the temptation of making huge profits from a player who could leave the club as free agent.
