FC Barcelona have been on the hunt for a backup striker option this summer. Following the departure of Memphis Depay in January, the Catalan club have been looking at a number of potential targets to fill the role. There are two names that have emerged as frontrunners Vitor Roque and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
FC Barcelona transfer decision
While both players have expressed a desire to join Barcelona. The financial realities of the club make it more likely that Aubameyang could make the move to the Camp Nou this summer. However, the striker’s recent struggles on the pitch may complicate matters.
Aubameyang joined Chelsea from Barcelona last summer. But has struggled to find his form in his debut season with the blues. The Gabonese striker has scored just three goals in 22 appearances in all competitions. A far cry from the prolific form he showed during his time at Arsenal.
Despite his lack of form, Aubameyang is reportedly keen on returning to FC Barcelona. The club where he spent just 6 months previously. The striker is said to be in regular contact with former teammates at the Camp Nou. He has also been in contact with Barcelona fc coach Xavi Hernandez.
However, any move for Aubameyang would be complicated by Barcelona’s precarious financial situation. The club has been struggling with mounting debt for years, and the COVID-19 pandemic has only exacerbated the problem.
The Catalan giants have had to offload a number of high-profile players, including Lionel Messi, in order to reduce their wage bill. Though Leo Messi looks set to return this summer. With the player ready to take a massive paycut.
Aubameyang and Barcelona
Given Barcelona’s financial mess, and Aubameyan’s lack of goals the move could fall through. However, the striker’s desire to return to the Camp Nou could prompt the club to look at the deal. Especially considering the player looks to terminate his Chelsea contract.
Barcelona’s current financial situation has also made it difficult for the club to attract top-quality talent. It remains to be seen whether they will be able to land a suitable backup striker before the start of the new season. However, Xavi Hernandez will be hoping to make some shrewd moves in the transfer market to bolster his squad ahead of the new campaign.
With the 2022/23 La Liga season coming to an end, Barcelona have enough time to get their finances in order. While Aubameyang’s recent struggles may make him a risky signing, the striker’s desire to return to the Camp Nou could give Barcelona the edge they need to get a deal done.
CONCLUSION
Despite the obstacles that lie ahead. Barcelona fans will be hoping that the club can make some smart moves in the transfer market. After a succesfull 22-23 season where they won the la liga and supercup. They will be hoping to add on to that. Whether or not Aubameyang will be a part of that remains to be see. One thing is for certain: the Catalan giants will need all the help they can get if they hope to reclaim their place at the top of Europe.