Newcastle United have made an inquiry from Arsenal on the availability of Aubameyang, as they plan to sign him on loan with an option to buy
By Kehinde Okeowo
Reports from England suggest that Newcastle United have sounded out Arsenal over a potential loan for the dethroned Gunners captain, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
The 32-year-old striker is currently on international assignment with his country Gabon at the African Nations Cup (AFCON) billed to commence in Cameroon on January 6, 2021.
Before then, he was suspended and stripped of the captain’s armband when he returned later than expected after he was granted permission to go and see his sick mum. Since then he has not played for Arsenal.
According to the Daily Mirror, Aubameyang is unlikely to play for Arsenal again and Newcastle want to sign him on a temporary deal at first in January, but with an option to offer £20m and make the deal permanent in the summer.
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Newcastle who are currently in the relegation zone and are trying to use the January transfer window to boost their squad to stay up, after which they will embark on longer-term signings which will further improve their squad in the summer.
As it stands, despite the change of ownership and apparent hope of heavy investment from the new owners, Newcastle face the harsh reality of possible relegation.
They currently sit in the 19th position ahead of Norwich City in 20th but just on goal difference, they are also 2 points adrift of Watford who are in the 17th position having played more games.
With Calum Wilson and Allan Maxima currently injured, Aubameyang’s signing will bring desired goals, and offer a possible escape route for the Maggies.
Although joining Newcastle would be a step down for the proven striker when compared with a new beginning with a bigger club abroad and if the Maggies continue to struggle with relegation after Aubameyang’s arrival. It is unlikely that he would sign a permanent deal if they went down.
One positive for Newcastle however, is that they remain one of the few clubs who can lure Aubameyang given his high wages and the fee. It’s just a question of whether that’s enough for the wantaway striker.