Borussia Dortmund have made what is effectively a public challenge for Arsenal to meet their £60 million asking price for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang before the transfer window closes on Wednesday.
Chief executive Ivan Gazidis had led a delegation that also included Arsenal’s new recruitment chief Sven Mislintat and contract negotiator Huss Fahmy to Dortmund earlier in the week but, with their bids so far peaking at just over £50m, the German club are not currently willing to sell their star player.
Aubameyang has clearly indicated a desire to leave and was left out of the club’s two most recent matches, before being included and then booed by the Dortmund fans against Freiburg on Saturday.
Sporting director Michael Zorc had earlier also attempted to clarify the situation. “Either our demands are met – then there may be still a transfer,” he said. “If they are not fulfilled then Aubameyang plays until the summer in Dortmund.
“It has also been discussed with the family of Aubameyang and accepted. Arsenal had started several attempts that we have declined, so I cannot say how it will end at the moment.”
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger also hopes to add centre-back Jonny Evans this month but is likely to only act on both deals if Olivier Giroud also departs. Dortmund and Chelsea are both interested in Giroud, who needs playing time ahead of the World Cup and could be available both permanently or on loan.
“I want Olivier to stay,” Wenger said. “If nobody comes in nobody goes out. The experienced side of the squad will remain the same unless someone comes in.”
Dortmund have been irritated by how Arsenal have pursued Aubameyang but believe that he will settle back into the squad should no agreement be reached on a transfer fee.
“Now we could calm it down, have talks with the family and we’re sure he’ll perform well and there are no problems with the team,” said Zorc.
Source: Telegraph
