Arsene Wenger has managed to turn the outcome of Chilean winger Alexis Sanchez’s contract situation into a decent one for his side as he landed Henrikh Mkhitaryan in his place, keeping the side’s creativity quotient intact. However, the manager wants to add yet another star to his attacking unit and it is understood that Arsenal are working on a deal to land Gabon international Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
Wenger Confirms Aubameyang Talks:
The French mastermind is convinced that his side needs to replace Sanchez’s output in front of goal and does not seem to trust the options at his disposal. Michael Zorc revealed that Aubameyang’s mind might not be in Germany anymore and Arsene Wenger has now claimed that Arsenal are in talks to sign the striker this month.
Speaking to the media recently, Wenger admitted that the Borussia Dortmund man is someone they are looking at but was coy about the chances of signing him. He could cost up to £60m, but what will he bring to the Emirates?
What Will Aubameyang Bring To Emirates?
A natural goal scorer, with impeccable dribbling abilities and fiery pace, Aubameyang is a devastating striker, who hardly misses a chance. He is quick and busy in front of goal and is lethal, when given any time or space on the ball, in and around the box.
He loves to play on the shoulder of the final defender and can get the better of even the best CBs, thanks to his positioning and pace to run in behind the backline. He is effective in collecting through balls but can also find the back of the net from crosses and is a player who will fit into any style of play.
He has an incredible goalscoring record in more than one European domestic league. In 143 Bundesliga appearances, he has 98 goals and 22 assists, including 13 goals and 3 assists this season. He also has 15 goals and 3 assists in 32 UCL appearances to add to 19 goals in 49 appearances for the Gabon national side.
He is one of the most prolific goal scorers in Europe at the moment and will be a star addition to the squad at Emirates if the Gunners can get the deal over the line.
Chances At Arsenal:
However, adding Aubameyang to their lineup might see their star striker Alexandre Lacazette lose his place in the first team. The French international has not been at his productive best in his first season in England and will surely make way for Aubameyang, who will walk into the first team.
Wenger might also use the duo as a strike partnership, with both Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Mesut Ozil, playing as playmakers behind the duo. This adds a bit of balance to the side but does not fit into Wenger’s style of play.
At 28, he is in his prime as a footballer and his goal-scoring prowess will surely get Arsenal back to their best, fighting in Europe. His price of £60m is also cheap for a player of his quality in today’s market and Wenger should do all it takes to land him, before the deadline day, to have any shot at a top-four finish this season.
Stats Courtesy: Whoscored