The rumours of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang making a sensational return to Barcelona just a year after leaving for Chelsea have been gaining weight in recent weeks.
The 33-year-old joined Barça in January last year and enjoyed a fruitful six-month stint before leaving for Chelsea in a deal worth €12 million. However, things have not worked out for him at Stamford Bridge, with the striker fully out of favour under manager Graham Potter.
It has given way to speculations over his future, with Barcelona reportedly seeing him as a genuine option to reinforce their squad in the summer.
Now, SPORT is reporting that Chelsea might be unwilling to let Aubameyang leave for free even though they do not count on him for next season. It could lead to Barcelona looking into the possibility of a season-long loan for the Gabonese striker.
The 33-year-old was in Barcelona earlier this month and was spotted celebrating the team’s El Clasico win over Real Madrid with his former teammates. It had reportedly angered Chelsea, who were said to be considering terminating his contract in the summer.
However, as per SPORT, even though Chelsea appeared happy to let him leave for nothing in January, are now reluctant to give away an asset without anything in return. Hence, a loan move could become an option for Barça.
The Catalans have Vitor Roque as their primary target to reinforce the centre-forward position. But Athletico Paranaense’s demands could become an issue as the Blaugrana’s spending power will be limited by La Liga’s Financial Fair Play policies.
In that scenario, a loan move for Aubameyang could emerge as a feasible, cost-effective option for Barcelona.
Furthermore, it has been claimed that the former Arsenal captain is keen on returning to Catalonia and would be willing to do so for minimal wages. He would also be happy with the role of a backup to Robert Lewandowski.
The 33-year-old could, thus, be a viable option for Barcelona, at least for one season, until they can get their finances in order and go for the bigger targets.
