Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has urged the club’s board to work swiftly on Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s contract before the season draws to a close.
Aubameyang, whose contract expires in 2021, stands a chance of departing on a free transfer should the Gunners fail to agree with him on the extension.
And Arteta is keen on holding the player at Emirates at any cost;
“We will have to do that at some stage before the end of the season for sure, and we will see the intentions that we have [and] his intentions.
“Where we are sitting in [the table at] that moment. I think it is difficult to predict that context right now. For me it is very easy. I want to keep him under any circumstances.”
Barcelona and Real Madrid are among the big clubs that have shown their intent to secure the signature of the Gabonese striker, and it may be hard to answer why Aubameyang could stay at Emirates while big clubs are looking for him.
It may be a significant move for the Gunners to convince the 30-year-old to stay if Arteta’s recent statement is anything to go by.
The Spaniard manager said that Arsenal may go for another barren summer after the exit from the Europa League. The Gunners have now shifted their attention for a top-four finish as this is the only remaining chance for them to qualify for the Champions League.
Arsenal will proceed with their league campaign on Saturday where they will eye a victory against West Ham United to narrow their gap with top four clubs.