Is the Aubameyang to Barcelona story fake news, or not?

The internet is buzzing with “reports” that Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has given Barcelona the green light to pursue and sign him this transfer window. Barcelona is looking for a replacement for the injured Luis Suarez who has been ruled out for the remainder of the season.

In my opinion, this story is more fake news than truth. I don’t mean to be naive, however, just a few weeks ago the Arsenal captain publicly swore his allegiance to the Gunners for the remainder of this season. Let’s hope he is a man of his word.

But. if you look at this from his point of view, he is 30 years old, he is still world class, Arsenal has little chance of playing Champions League football next season, and Barcelona can splash the cash…big time. Arsenal have also said they will not let him run out his contract and go for a free transfer in the summer of 2021. Looking down the road. however, I think Aubameyang will leave Arsenal this summer for greener pastures, bigger paydays, and trophies.

I’m sure Barcelona would love to have our man. He would add an additional spark to an offense that already includes Lionel Messi and Antoine Griezmann.
But, I am convinced Aubamyang will finish this season as a Gunner, while providing more goals and leadership for Arteta’s side. His absence would create a massive hole, even though Gabriel Martinelli has done a great job replacing Auba the past two games.

Also, the boss commented on the rumor this morning. “As far as I know, a week ago after a game at home we were discussing that he said he was so happy and he didn’t agree with the things that were written in the media and he has his future here. That’s what I understand at the moment.”

I’ve also been checking for stories in the UK press this morning and so far have found nothing to substantiate this news. So, one would have to decide this is more fake news than truth.

To run out this season without our scoring talisman would be a major set back. He brings so much more to the club than just goals.

But for now, let’s hope this story remains fake news for at least the next 7 days.

Cheers. Gunner1953